Waiting is hard. Whether it’s waiting in traffic, waiting in line, or waiting for test results, there is something about waiting that is not always ideal. We find ourselves in a period of waiting during Holy Week: We just finished Palm Sunday and our next official observance comes in a couple days on Maundy Thursday. In this waiting, we find ourselves mentally and even spiritually preparing for what Holy Week will provide.
During Holy Week, we follow the path of the cross and the events that lead to it: Jesus triumphant. Jesus in loving service. Jesus betrayed and arrested. Jesus the source of derision. Jesus beaten. Jesus breathing his last breath. We learn much about Jesus and his journey to glory through the times when he is waiting. When Jesus waits to make his procession before the palms. He chooses a lowly animal to ride on, showing us he is not only a king but a Messianic King. As Jesus waits for his betrayal and arrest, he is at table with friends and serves them. He even washes their feet, a gesture usually performed by a servant. Next, in his waiting, Jesus prays. Even during the crucifixion, Jesus waits for his last moments on the cross, mostly in silence.
Waiting is hard. We see however the fulfillment of the prophecy of our Lord through that waiting. In waiting for death, Jesus, creates opportunities to pray and to love. As we wait for the rest of Holy Week and then Easter, I wonder how we might do better with the time that we have while we are waiting. Let us be thoughtful. Let us engage in acts of servanthood. Let us pray. Let us love.
One Love,
The Rev. Shawn Evelyn, Associate for Parish Life
Links to the appointed readings and prayer for today:
