“Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord” (Jam. 5:7). Driving an open highway feels free and easy. The rhythm is simple, even relaxing, as prairie fields stretch across the horizon on repeat. Without noticing, we can adopt this picture as our expectation for life. We don’t anticipate conflict, disruption, or detours; we crave the smooth, effortless path. I remember in my very young, very green missionary days assuming that God wouldn’t let things get that  hard—not after......