Matthew 26:36-46, Jesus Prayers in Gethsemane

36 Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, “Sit here, while I go over there and pray.” 37 And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” 39 And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” 40 And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? 41 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42 Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” 43 And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44 So, leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words again. 45 Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Sleep and take your rest later on. See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.”

Comments

Gethsemane, which means “olive press,” was likely a regular spot for Jesus. Judas knew about it and would find him there. In prayer, Jesus experienced an anguish of deep wretchedness, falling on his face before the Father and asking him to spare his vicarious suffering on the cross. Yet, Jesus stayed anchored in the Father’s will.

In contrast, his closest three disciples could not stay awake in prayer, specifically praying not to fall into the temptation to deny Jesus, which is a permanent issue and problem for all Christians. Jesus’ three prayers of conforming to the Father’s will contrasted with Peter’s three denials. Lastly, Jesus called his disciples to attention, not retreat, as Judas arrived.

Prayer

Lord, teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Lighten, if it be thy will, the pressures of this world’s cares. Above all, reconcile us to thy will, and give us a peace which the world cannot take away; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

(Thomas Chalmers, 1780-1847)