Children's Guide to EasterSample

Day 5: Gethsamane

After the Last Supper, Jesus went to the garden of Gethsamane. He told his disciples, "Keep watch while I pray." The disciples tried to stay awake, but their eyes felt so heavy.

Jesus prayed so hard that sweat rolled down his face, "Father, if there's a way to stop what's coming, please help me. If not, then I am ready to do Your will."

When Jesus returned, the disciples were fast asleep! Wake up! They're coming for me!" cried Jesus. The disciples sprang to their feet! They turned to look where Jesus was pointing.

There was Judas! With a crowd of angry men! Judas walked right up to Jesus and kissed him. Jesus said, "Do what you came for, friend." Then he told the crowd, "I'll come with you, but let my disciples go."

The crowd took Jesus to the home of the High Priest. Jesus hadn't done anything wrong, so the priests and elders made up stories about him. Even so, Jesus kept quiet.

The priests wanted to kill Jesus, but they needed permission from the Roman governor, Pilate, first. Pilate was reluctant to kill Jesus because Jesus was innocent, but the priests insisted.

Jesus knew God's plan for him, but that didn't make it easy. Suddenly, Jesus was all alone. How would you feel if you were Jesus now? Where do you think Jesus got his strength and courage from?