Jesus, God’s beloved son, who pleased his Father. Yet a moment came when he was gripped with overwhelming sorrow and anguish. Why did that happen? The day drew near for him to be betrayed, arrested and crucified.
As I reflect on the story of Jesus pouring out his heart in the garden of Gethsemane, I am not only impacted by the agony and isolation that he experienced, but also the manner in which he pressed through to victory. His broken heart was not the end of the story.
Then he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” (Matthew 26:38) It is natural to seek the support of friends. Jesus invited his three closest friends to stand with him, but they had no idea what he was going through. Instead of watching, they slept.
Have you ever sought the support of friends but they disappointed you?
Jesus knew that the only person he could rely on was his Heavenly Father. He fell on his face and three times he cried to his Father who had never failed him. He prayed with such intensity that his sweat became like great drops of blood falling to the ground. (Luke 22:44). He prayed a prayer of petition and submission.
Have you ever been in such pain that you desired immediate relief? Jesus wanted the source of the pain to be removed: “if it be possible, let this cup pass from me.” However, that would mean a change in the Father’s plan. And he had come to earth for a specific purpose.
“Nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” What a prayer! The son’s priority was the Father’s will. How could Jesus submit in the midst of pain? He was confident of His Father’s love.
Can we learn to put the Father’s will first, even if we are in anguish?
Jesus was the recipient of answered prayer. The Father demonstrated his heart for his son and sent an angel to strengthen him (Luke 22:43). Through the act of consecration, Jesus shifted from being troubled to being at peace. He entered the garden sorrowful and in agony. He left the garden at peace and ready for his Father’s mission. He entered the garden with a broken heart, but left with a surrendered heart as he faced death courageously, not for his sins but for the sins of the world.
What can we learn from Jesus’ prayer in the garden? The account of Jesus in the garden shows his humanity and his resolve to trust and obey his Father. We learn that it is acceptable to honestly share our feelings and troubles with our Father but we must ultimately submit to his will. In the midst of pain, our posture and the person to whom we pray can lead to peace and purpose.
Heavenly Father, please help me to submit to your will just as Jesus did during a time of deep agony. Whenever I experience pain, I just want to be relieved. I realize that although I may not understand your ways I have to trust you because you know what is best for me. Pain does not mean that you do not care. You were there for your beloved son and I know you will be there for me as well.
Throughout this day: Be encouraged and comforted. Jesus trusted His Father with his fears as well as the perfect plan he had for his future. Confidently run to your Heavenly Father in every circumstance. He will strengthen and give you peace in the midst of your pain.
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