Darkness to Light

Tuesday, December 19, 2006 -- Week of 3 Advent

"Morning Reflections" is a brief thought about the scripture readings from the Daily Office of Morning and Evening Prayer according to the practice found in the Book of Common Prayer of the Episcopal Church.

Morning Prayer begins on p. 80 of the Book of Common Prayer.
Evening Prayer begins on p. 117
An online resource for praying the Daily Office is found at www.missionstclare.com
Another form of the office from Phyllis Tickle's "Divine Hours" is available on our partner web site www.ExploreFaith.org at this location -- http://explorefaith.org/prayer/fixed/index.html


Today's Readings for the Daily Office (p. 938)
Psalms 45 (morning) // 47, 48 (evening)
Isaiah 9:1-7
2 Peter 1:12-21
Luke 22:54-69

Today we have snapshots of Jesus and Peter. One picture occurs during their time of trial. Another picture offers the interpretations of future generations.

Jesus has been arrested. Peter follows at a safe distance, but it is not as safe as he imagined. Three times during the evening someone tries to connect him with Jesus. Three times Peter denies any connection or knowledge of Jesus. The cock crows, and Jesus' eyes meet Peter's. Just hours ago Jesus had predicted, over Peter's protestations, that Peter would deny him. Peter leaves weeping bitterly. He has failed his test.

Jesus endures brutal hazing and interrogation. All night long he is beaten and questioned. He holds on to the hope that God will vindicate. The brutality and judgment of the accusers continues toward its fatal end. Darkness has its triumph.

It is two generations or so later. The church's memory of Peter is that of a founding hero. There is insecurity in the movement because the expected return of the Lord has not occurred. Some are saying that Jesus will never return. A church authority writes in the name of Peter and urges the church to remain faithful, "until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts."

It is eight centuries earlier and the prophet Isaiah looks hopefully for a faithful heir for David's throne. The post-resurrection church remembers these words, and sees their fulfillment in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. These words will be sent to great music to celebrate his triumph: "for a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness -- on them life has shined."

Lowell
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