At this writing the U.S. House of Representatives has just completed its 100 days of legislation on the so-called Contract with America. It was an effort to change quickly a process which was at work through several decades. Some analysts criticize the legislation for having been put together too hastily. It was driven by a desire to demonstrate instant results. The probability is that the legislation will move through the Senate with more "deliberate speed." The Senate will look more closely to discern whether the legislation will bring with it unintended results. The effects of the proposals may not have been sufficiently considered.

The disciples may well have expected that the preaching and activity of Jesus would produce immediate results in the coming of the kingdom. They may have b…