41, 52, 44
Isaiah 8:16-9:1 2 Peter 1:1-11 Luke 22:39-53
Today’s readings are a study in contrasts: vivid declarations that ultimately the righteous will flourish while those who love evil will come to destruction, along with a significant amount of anguish at the ways in which that is not coming to pass.
The gospel reading opens with the contrast of Jesus praying fervently on the Mount of Olives and the disciples who are unable to stay awake. Other gospel writers say that their “eyes were heavy.” Luke is alone in offering this curious insight: When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow.
Exhausted from sorrow. Reading the verses prior to this gives a double portion of contrasts and anguish. Jesus encourages service, the disciples argue about who is the greatest. Jesus foretells of his betrayal, Peter vehemently protests. Jesus predicts his death and the disciples grab swords. We can shake our heads at finding the disciples sleeping despite Jesus’ pleas to stay awake but this year I feel nothing but kinship.
It’s easy to be disoriented when we’re exhausted from our sorrow. It’s hard to believe the righteous will flourish and it’s tempting to reach for a weapon rather than choose the way of peace. As we wait for Jesus, may our sleepy eyes be met with compassion.
God of compassion, gently comfort us in our exhaustion so that our eyes may stay open to your way of peace and love.
Listen to TJ read her Advent meditation and prayer:
