ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
July 23, 2021
Scripture: Luke 22:40
When Jesus reached the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not come into the time of trial.”
Thought for the Day: Jesus and his disciples have just left the magnificence of the upper room where they experienced the light of love, but now they’ve entered the darkness of the night. In a loving way as only Jesus could do, he spoke about those who would deny him and betray him. There would be the disciple who would pull out a sword during the arrest of Jesus, resorting to violence in the face of fear. And then there will be those who fall asleep while Jesus is praying, which can be read both literally and figuratively. So many moments of trial, so many moments when the very core of our faith is challenged. Jesus invited his disciples to use prayer as a way of keeping oneself from even venturing into the realm where one could be tempted. Maybe that’s a little ideal, but more regular prayer helps to create a mindset a bit more like that of Jesus. And where one’s mindset changes, so does the world around them.
Prayer: Keep me firmly connected to you, Gracious God, as I use this time of focused prayer to more deeply connect with you and to more fully take on the attitude of Jesus. I do not make this request lightly for I know much spiritual consternation will come from it. Amen.
