Waiting in darkness

Reading

Matthew 26.36-38

And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want.’ Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, ‘So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.’ Again he went away for the second time and prayed, ‘My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.’ Again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. So leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words. Then he came to the disciples and said to them, ‘Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.’

Reflection

Yesterday we explored the Black spiritual practice of “tarrying” (waiting) as a community to draw closer to Jesus and to each other. Combining exuberant singing, fervent prayer and quiet lament, such services typically take place at night and can last for several hours.

Such “tarrying” services are rooted in today’s Gospel reading of the night of Jesus’ arrest, when he asks his sleepy disciples, “So, could you not keep awake [or “tarry” in older translations] with me for one hour?”

“Tarrying” seeks to offer an undeniable “yes”. Through this practice, the faithful are able to write a new story. Rather than leaving Jesus lonely in his time of longing for spiritual companionship, he is met in the tarrying moment with a whole host of friends to accompany him. We are all called to “tarry” – watching and praying – with Jesus this Lent.

Watch

Re-read Jesus' request of his disciples today - and notice how you respond to it.

...and pray

for all who are suffering alone, that they may be accompanied.

Copyright © The Archbishops’ Council 2024.