Help on the field

 

Luke 22:39-46

I’ve often thought that my role as a pastor is a bit like that of a cheerleader or a waterboy. I'm there to offer encouragement and inspiration as you live out what God has called you to do. I used to think of myself as the church’s trainer, helping to get everyone ready for the work ahead. But after reading today’s text, I realize that role might already be taken. There's a question of textual authenticity related to Luke 22:43-44. Those two verses don’t appear in some of the earliest manuscripts we have. So, scholars debate whether Luke originally wrote them or if they were added later. Whatever your view, these verses still draw us into meaningful reflection. The passage tells us that an angel appeared to Jesus while he was at his lowest point, giving him strength. There’s a give and take in the angel's appearance. The angel gives, and Jesus receives. As he receives, he is strengthened. Think about that. Jesus had already prayed one of the most difficult prayers of life. You know the word: “Not my will, but yours be done.” How has your life changed by praying that prayer? But  after praying, Luke tells us that the angel strengthened him, and then Jesus prayed more earnestly. One commentator describes the angel’s role like that of a trainer preparing an athlete. Trainers know when to push, when to guide, and when to help lift someone back to their feet. Think about when a player goes down in a game. The trainer is the first one on the field to help. My hope is that we all experience that kind of divine help in our own struggles. At my church, we often call “angels” those people who show up just when we need them most. Their presence brings strength, God’s strength, right when it’s needed. I'm encouraged by that because it reminds me that the struggle doesn't always go away. But God still provides strength, often through our willingness to show up and walk alongside each other.  Stay blessed...john