When he got up from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping because of grief. — Luke 22:45.
This verse struck a chord, perhaps because I, too, am prone to falling asleep at a moment’s notice, especially when stressed. I also note, that it seems the few times Jesus expresses significant frustration with his disciples is when he finds them sleeping.
The disciples found refuge in sleep when overwhelmed by sorrow. They had just received the shocking news that one of their own would betray Jesus and that he would soon depart from them. Despite all his teachings, they couldn’t fully grasp the impending events, and in their profound anxiety, they drifted off to sleep.
Jesus, however, responded to his distress by praying, earnestly asking God to alter his predetermined path. I can really relate to Jesus in this moment. There have been several instances in my own life when I’ve desperately pleaded with God to change an aspect of my future. Neither Jesus nor I received the exact answer we sought. Yet, after prayer, we both gained a clearer understanding that God had a plan, and we better understood our roles within it.
When you’re confronted with inconsolable grief, a dismal and uncertain future, or an unsolvable life puzzle, turn to God in prayer. Often, the divine perspective offers far better answers and infinitely more comfort than a nap. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with a good nap, but sometimes, a conversation with God is precisely what our weary souls need.
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