So tonight is kind of strange. The kids and I are home alone while Eric is at an all night funeral vigil for the sister of one of our ministry partners. That’s right…all night funeral vigil. That is the tradition here in Swaziland. An all night funeral vigil is held at the homestead of the deceased which culminates at daybreak with the burial of the body. It is considered rude and unacceptable to show up only for the burial and/or to come and “pay respects” and leave. If you are going to show up, you are in for the long haul. We have heard different versions of what one of these vigils is like. Sounds like there is alot of praying, singing and preaching. Actually, Eric texted me earlier this evening with the following, chilling message:
“I’m in a tent and can hear the hole being dug for the burial in the AM…strange…”
He will spend the night outside or in the tent that the family procured for the vigil. This is not a comfortable funeral home with soft chairs and soothing music.; hot coffee and breath mints. This is outside in the bush, under the stars of a cool, African winter night. Sunset to sunrise. Funerals and visitations (or wakes, depending on your background) are never pleasant, of course. We are realizing now that like so many things in America, funerals are something that we have ‘cleaned up’ and made convenient and more palatable. Think about it. Funeral visitations are usually held at two or sometimes more times during the day or even over a couple of days. This way you can stop by when it fits into your schedule. Often times, the actual burial is reserved for only close family and/or friends. The casual acquaintance is never expected to be at the graveside. The guests at a funeral are never exposed to any of the unpleasant details such as the digging of the hole or the preparation of the body. Like so many things in our Western culture: no fuss, no muss! Our way is so much more civilized, isn’t it. Isn’t it! Isn’t it??
I can’t help but reflect on Jesus last night with His disciples in Gethsemene. Jesus made a simple request: “Sit here while I pray.” (Mark 14:32)
In many ways this was a funeral vigil of sorts. Jesus was on the way to His death on the cross. He had His closest and most beloved followers with Him. Asking them to wait and be attentive while He went to pray to His Father seems like a reasonable request.
Yet, after His time in urgent prayer with the Father, Jesus returns to find His disciples fast asleep. “Could you not keep watch for one hour?” Jesus asks them. ONE HOUR? Could we keep watch for one hour? Have you ever tried to pray for one hour? How about just sit and be still for one hour? How about all night long? Jesus’ own words at the end of verse 38 say it all: “The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”
Isn’t that the truth!? As a matter of fact, the kids and I should probably be at that vigil tonight. I used the excuse that we had a busy day, running around with teams visiting from the States. Eric and I “tag- teamed” today so that one of us was more rested. How convenient… I used the excuse that the kids shouldn’t have to stay up all night at a vigil. I used the excuse…that the spirit is willing but the body is weak. Right or wrong…here I am sitting at home while Eric and many, many others are gathered on a homestead under the stars, in the dark and the cold night air…listening to shoveled dirt hitting the ground…
I can almost imagine the sound of their praying, their singing and chanting.
So I watch…and I pray…
Glad you guys are there to sit alongside the suffering. Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.
Jen, thanks for your honesty! I love your heart!
Remember there is grace my friend.
Loads of love to you and I will pray for Eric’s time in the bush.
I appreciate your emailes and it causes me to pray More at all times. Blessings to you and your family!
God never wastes any experience. Your tying in the all night vigil to Jesus and the disciples makes the story you have read so many times more real and meaningful…to you and to us! God has gifted you in so many ways. You and Eric are ONE…so you’re there, too. Don’t beat yourself up too much. Next time, Eric can stay with the kids.
Hugs to all!
Diana