A Journey with Jesus during Lent

Thursday, March 2, 2023

A Journey with Jesus during Lent

Day 8

Matthew 26:39

Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”

One verse, one extremely powerful verse. It is so hard to read and to imagine Jesus in such a sorrow-filled state. In the intensity of this hour, not even Jesus’ closest disciples could remain attentive, and perhaps that’s how it was supposed to be. These witnesses (Peter, James and John) overheard only the essence of his struggle. It might have felt too private for their ears, not to mention, overwhelming for them to see and hear it all.

Gerrit Dawson describes it this way, "The Messiah, the Anointed One, went to the olive press to be squeezed under the great stone of the world’s sin. He went to unravel the fundamental error in the human heart." In the garden of Gethsemane, the place of soul crushing, with His Father’s presence feeling like it is disappearing and his own disciples fleeing and falling asleep, Jesus said, “Nevertheless, Your will be done. “ This is perfect obedience to the Father.

One more thought, It is hard to believe that Jesus was actually moving toward unspeakable pain — the reality of what was to happen on the cross. It was only because of what He knew to be ahead, the joy of saving us and sitting down at his Father’s right hand. Amazing…all for us. Do you see Gethsemane in a different way now and if so, how?

Dear Jesus,

We praise You and give thanks that we get to journey with You through this season of Lent. Draw us closer to Your heart, that we might know You better. After we daily reflect on Your selflessness and life-giving Word, give us wisdom to be Your hands and feet in the world just as You intend. Give us hearts of compassion, hands of generosity, and feet that take Your good news to the world. We love You and are honored to serve you Lord, our sweet Savior. Amen.

Week 2 Act of Kindness

“For I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink” Matthew 25:35b

This week, donate water to a homeless shelter or make a donation to a “clean water mission” organization (i.e., Splash.org, Water.org)