(Jesus) came to a place named Gethsemane and He fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will” Mark 14:32-36 (paraphrased).
The garden of Gethsemane is still alive with olive trees. It’s a place of solitude and meditation. Jesus went there to pray. He asked the Father for deliverance from the pain and suffering He knew the next few hours would bring. After much prayer and before the soldiers arrived in the garden, Jesus made the difficult choice and yielded Himself completely to the will of the Father above His own.
Ultimately, He was led out of the garden and placed under arrest. He was bound by the very soldiers He would soon die to forgive, and He was bound by love to willingly fulfill the Father’s plan. His obedience brought us freedom from the penalty of sin and the hope of heaven. His choice led Him down the path of suffering, which opened the door for us to come to God.
I’m not sure how you’re doing in your prayer life, but I know mine could use some adjustments. I realized recently that in comparison to Jesus, my prayers are not focused on the big picture, but on me finding and taking the easy way out. I find myself spending too much time fretting, fearful, and reluctant, yet relatively little time looking for what God desires to accomplish in me or in others through the difficulty I’m in.
I want to change. I want to listen to God in prayer and give Him a chance to reach others through me. I want to pray the tough prayers and then let my life follow God’s plan instead of mine. I’m not the savior of the world, but I know that my deepest prayers can result in blessing for those around me.
God, help us in our weakness. Help us choose Your ways today. May our attention and obedience give You the opportunity to do something great for others today.
Blessings,
