Oh the emotion!
Jesus knew that his followers would be tempted this night. Satan had been waiting for this moment with a different sort of anticipation than Jesus. We can take note of Jesus’ actions here. When faced with the biggest trial of his life, literally, he turned to his father in prayer. Do we do that? What do we do when trials come?
Another great example we can glean from Jesus’ moments in the garden are when he pled with God to let this suffering pass (showing his humanity loud and clear). Yet, he truly only wanted his Father’s will to be done. How many times have we told God how he should answer our prayers? God’s will is what we should be praying for. Sometimes it isn’t what we expect. Always, it is better.
I have special memories of the song IN THE GARDEN, by Michael Card. When my son was young, he learned how to play the cello. He accompanied on this song several years during Holy Week. Enjoy this song HERE. When I close my eyes, I can still see my son and hear him playing.
When Jesus returned to his disciples, he found them sleeping. Had they listened to his instruction? Had they prayed for strength to overcome the temptation they would soon face? Imagine the disappointment Jesus felt when he found them this way. How about us? Do we ignore Jesus’ voice? He wants us to pray for protection, too. We are not immune to Satan. We may be highly targeted, just like his disciples.
Take some time today to reflect on times when you have faced trials. Did you rely on God’s power or did you try to make it on your own? Maybe you’re in the midst of a storm right now. Do you feel like you have more than you can handle? God is there. You will make it through, together. What would Jesus tell you to do? Pray.
Let’s pray. Father, thank you for giving us your son to teach us how to pray and when to pray. We can also see his great example of relying on you and seeking your will be done. Even in those times when we want a different outcome, help us to remember your will is best. When I think of the suffering that Jesus went through for me, my heart breaks and I am filled with such wonder, awe, and gratefulness. Use this exhilaration to fuel my momentum each day in bringing others into a closer relationship with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
