Day 38 | Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane

Reflection

Jesus knew what was coming. He had been sent for this – his purpose as King and Saviour had always led him here. He wasn’t afraid of death, but he knew the dreadful cost of what he had to do. Separation from the Father as he willingly took the world’s sin on his shoulders and faced the consequences head-on.

And in that garden, anguish, and sorrow tearing him apart, he prayed as any of us might under the circumstances.

‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me…’

Was there any other way? Maybe we’ve prayed like this– pleading with God, calling out to him when we’re up against it and can’t see a way through.

‘…yet not my will but yours be done.’

Jesus’ prayer was a powerful re-commitment to his mission and purpose, not some kind of resignation to fate. He would remain on track, undistracted, and faithful to the mission his Father had given him. Hebrews 12:2 tells us why: ‘for the joy set before him Jesus endured the shame of the cross’. The joy of doing the Father’s will and saving us for relationship with him.

What might remaining faithful and undistracted to following Jesus in our everyday look like for us, especially when it's really difficult? There may be times when God’s loving purposes seem strange to us, and it’s in those moments that God calls us to trust him. Remembering that our identity and purpose is found in Jesus will help us hold on to his loving care. And we will find strength in him.

Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus remained faithful to your will to save us. Help me to hold on to you, whatever this day holds for me, and trust in your loving purposes. Amen.