The prayer of Jesus (Luke 22: 39 – 46) has strengthened me all through my life. I like to share my reflections on the phrase “Jesus prayed”. I believe it will be an encouragement and strength to all of us who have embarked on this noble meditation.
Jesus went to the garden of Gethsemane to pray. This was soon after the Passover meal with His disciples and just before His betrayal and subsequent arrest. He took Peter, James, and John a little farther into the garden before He Himself began to pray alone.
Because of the imminent death on the cross, Jesus began to be greatly distressed, sorrowful and troubled and said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death, remain here and pray with me”. Jesus then fell on the ground face-down and prayed, not once, but thrice for strength to fulfil the eternal will of God.
Jesus asked His disciples to pray so that they will not enter temptation. But, during the prayer, Jesus found that His disciples could not stay awake and pray for a while. He asked, ‘Could you not watch with me one hour?’ Watch and pray that you may not enter temptation. He also said, “the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak”.
The temptations, perhaps, maybe their questions about Jesus’ humiliation on the Cross, and possibly include questions about their future. They were ready psychologically and spiritually. But, in the real realm of life (flesh), they faced challenges.
However, all their questions were answered after Jesus’ resurrection. In fact, they were able to overcome their challenges as they experienced a new vigour and became enthusiastic witnesses of Jesus.
As we begin to follow Jesus closely, we may face temptations – disillusionment, disappointment, and various other obstacles. The best possible way before us is to constantly surrender ourselves to God and seek God’s wisdom and guidance in continuous prayer.
Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand, precious Lord
Lead me home
When my way grows drear
Precious Lord, linger near
When my light is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand, lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord
Lead me home
