Mark 14:32-42
Gethsemane

The scene at Gethsemane never fails to move me. Jesus knew that he was soon to be arrested, betrayed and denied by his own disciples, tried in a mock trial held before dawn, and crucified the next day. He knew that he would be taking away the sins of the world, and that as he bore them on the cross, his Father would have to turn away from that scene--if ever so briefly, yet so painfully.

At this time, Jesus longed for the human companionship of his friends, but more important, for their prayers. Yet, in their human weakness, they fell asleep, not aware of what was about to take place. Jesus asks the Father if it is possible, to take this cup of hardship away, but also prays, not my will but yours be done.

How often to we fall asleep, failing to do the work or follow the will of the Father? The disciples did the same. Yet, in the book of Acts, they are transformed as they encounter the living, resurrected Savior and are filled with the Holy Spirit.

We need to ask for the power of the Holy Spirit to enable us to do the will of the Father. We need to be alert, for the time of the Son's return may be soon, and Satan would like nothing better than inactivity in those who proclaim the name of Christ. My prayer is that I can follow Jesus even in difficulty, and be mindful of temptations that threaten to take my time from him.

- posted by Suzi @ 6:49 AM