Rich Virodas Explores Waiting for Jesus in New Book

Many people struggle with the idea of waiting. So when Rich Virodas, a New York Times bestselling author, began reflecting on the story of Jesus and Christmas, he found that waiting is a central theme in the Christmas narrative. His latest book, *Waiting for Jesus*, features 25 devotions that capture his personal journey of anticipation. In an interview with Crosswalk, Virodas shared insights on what it means to wait for Jesus.

Rich Virodas: It’s quite a painful tradition within Scripture, reflecting our dependence on God, who is ultimately coming. Waiting can be difficult and complicated. It exposes our flaws on one hand, while fostering dependence on the other. I think this experience is uniquely human—it’s part of what having a relationship with God means.

CW: Why is waiting on God viewed as a form of spiritual formation?

RV: The question touches on what formation does in us during waiting. I’d say what God accomplishes in us while we wait is more significant than what we are actually waiting for. It’s an opportunity for formation. God is not just handing out gifts but is working to shape something within us. I think that’s where we feel tension in waiting. While some matters, like healing or reconciliation, are obviously important, we must also consider what God is trying to form in us. The overarching narrative in the Bible, particularly in Romans 8, suggests we are destined to reflect the image of God’s Son. Waiting puts us in a unique position to embrace that process.

CW: It sounds like this book was something you needed to write?

RV: We often write what we personally need. My struggles inform my writing. While some write out of purely intellectual curiosity, I feel compelled to articulate my life’s challenges and connect with the community in Queens, New York City. My journey, along with the community’s, brings forth topics like joy, peace, and of course, waiting. It’s about directing our attention toward something meaningful.

CW: When did you feel called to write this book?

RV: Interestingly, the project has two phases. My other works often blend a pastoral duty to my community. This initiative started around 2015 when I wanted our congregation to have a healthier relationship with consumerism and the messages surrounding Christmas, like keeping Christ in Christmas. Ten years ago, I began creating devotions to help them stay attuned to God. Every year, I’d revise and share these. Initially, my first book was a guide for leaders, but it turned out other readers benefited from it too. Two years ago, a publisher approached me, catalyzing the thematic development centered on waiting for Jesus.

CW: What’s your writing routine like?

RV: My writing habits have evolved. I used to write mostly at night, having completed my first two books during those quiet hours. Currently, when I’m in a writing phase, I tend to write three to four days each week.