On My Knees

Over the last week, I’ve read through Matthew’s gospel. It was enlightening to read it in big chunks, revealing many things which are easily missed when reading sound-bite amounts. The pressure on Jesus from crowds was painfully obvious, for instance. He was fully human, so when bad news came, or big decisions needed making, he needed to be alone. 

But still the crowds followed him, and his grace under that sort of pressure is astonishing.

When I say he needed to be alone, that’s not quite right. He needed to be alone with his Father, the source of his strength, wisdom, and grace, for a refreshing refill of the Holy Spirit in his life.

At the end, after the incredible Passover supper he shared with his friends, he once again sought solace in prayer. He knew what was coming, yet he sought a change of plan. 

Three times he asked the Father to find another way. That implies that the first two times he prayed, he didn’t get an answer, or at least not one he was willing to accept. The third time, though, he did. He understood that despite the horror of what was coming, his Father had it all in hand. And this is where the biggest revelation comes. When he returned to his sleeping disciples after the third time of prayer, he no longer chastises them for not keeping watch with him. Instead he displays a new resolve and strength and courage. He knows what he has to do and he is willing to do it because he trusts in the Father’s absolute love for him and wisdom.

Many times when I face unpleasant things I beg God to find another way. I beg more than three times, I’m sure. I am encouraged by Jesus’ example to face difficult times with courage, knowing that anything the Father allows to happen to me has an ultimate purpose for good. God’s ways aren’t my ways nor are his thoughts my thoughts – thank goodness!

So this Lent I’m going to aim to pray from a less comfy position. I’m going to aim to do my praying – except when I’m walking the dog! – on my knees, and see if that helps me focus more clearly on my Lord.

This morning’s sky is sprinkled with clouds, and as I walked the dog I noticed a break in one blanket of clouds and the glory – shafts of golden light – coming through to spotlight the earth. Behind all the clouds there is the sun – the Son – and his glory is reassuring, enriching, and gives me courage to face whatever comes my way.

How about you?