Pastor Terry Reilly
Creekside Open Bible Church
Luke 22:44-45 He prayed more fervently, and he was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood. 45 At last he stood up again and returned to the disciples, only to find them asleep, exhausted from grief.
The job is a hassle. The kids aren’t “kidding right.” Marriage is on a downward trajectory. And financially, there is economic stress all around. Life can be exhausting…no wonder that for so many, sleep is such a wonderful escape hatch. Exit stage right to a nice “garden spot” and find a Posturepedic mattress and pillow. We even have a Bible verse for it right here! Oh, I guess that isn’t the encouragement. Jesus’ A-team experienced some emotional and physical times that taxed them to the max. The disciples, while not insensitive to their Savior’s suffering, didn’t sense the seriousness of the mission so they slumbered. Funny thing, gracious and gentle Jesus asks them why they were sleeping and then challenges them again to pray.
Someone said, “When you can’t do anything else, pray!” Seems logical, work hard, do something, make it happen. We try to be like the Little Engine that Could but soon find out we can’t. I confess, I would rather stand and deliver than kneel and pray. This business of busyness makes me feel more productive and keeps me awake. This is especially true when I’m drained, tired and tuckered out from the mission. But, you know what? I’m not so sure it produces more for Christ’s Kingdom mission. Jesus didn’t seem to think so in the garden. I wonder if our lives wouldn’t be better served by the thought, “If you can do anything else – pray.” Jesus’ challenge is clear and straight forward. There are times the body of Christ needs my prayers more than they need my strategies and work ethic….and at times, more than I need my rest.
Prayer: Lord, I’m often like your first disciples. But I’m learning…I can’t and you can. You will if I pray. Amen.
I’m learning just that,to go to Jesus first and pray for my uncontrolled situation and allow Jesus to be the captain of my ship.
I am in your hands Father and not in the mix of my mess,help me to be still once again.
How come the same old message still hits the same old weak spot? You would think we would figure it out . . . a bit better at least. Usually I don’t pray until all else HAS failed. Lord help me with my learning curve today. . . just a bit. Help me to do less by turning you sooner, and use my time more to see what You will do. Thank you Reverend Reilly!
I came into work early today SO THAT I could have some time alone before the day gets going. I am praying because I don’t know what else to do – I go to iLent and my last words were, “Lord You’ve got to help me, I don’t know what to do.” I look up and the are the words from Luke 22:44 “He prayed more fervently, and he was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood.” All in one sentence I have compassion and empathy from Jesus, and answer for today and a challenge to live my life on my knees. Thank you Terry, thank you Lord.
“I can’t and you can. You will if I pray.” Powerful, life giving words I want to remember. Thanks.