We remember how Jesus was confronted by Satan, using the weapons of his devious, most enticing temptations. Jesus, although weakened from weeks without food never flinched in the face of His greatest enemy.
We recall how when sailing across the Sea of Galilee in a wild storm, the disciples though experienced sailors were afraid they might sink and drown; in contrast Jesus was calm and absolutely unafraid.
We are amazed at how Jesus spoke so bluntly to the Jewish leaders who were conspiring to kill him, forcefully challenging them to recognize how sinful they truly were. Apparently He was unconcerned that this would increase their opposition and antagonism.
In each situation there is no evidence of fear or anxiety in the face of evil and danger. Yet the scene is so different when we find Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples. There Matthew records:
We recall how when sailing across the Sea of Galilee in a wild storm, the disciples though experienced sailors were afraid they might sink and drown; in contrast Jesus was calm and absolutely unafraid.
We are amazed at how Jesus spoke so bluntly to the Jewish leaders who were conspiring to kill him, forcefully challenging them to recognize how sinful they truly were. Apparently He was unconcerned that this would increase their opposition and antagonism.
In each situation there is no evidence of fear or anxiety in the face of evil and danger. Yet the scene is so different when we find Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples. There Matthew records:
"He began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them,“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” 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.” 26:37, 38
We consider this passage with awe and reverence. Three times He prayed to avoid what lay ahead of Him. Truly it is a mystery. The perfect God/man must have been as courageous as any human who ever lived. We know that others, including many Christians with great courage have faced terrible physical suffering and death. Yet here we find Jesus flinching, desperately struggling with a desire to avoid what lies ahead.
We know it must have been the spiritual pain and darkness of the Cross that caused our Lord such mental, emotional and spiritual agony in the Garden. But how it appeared to Him as He looked ahead; and what exactly Christ experienced as He hung on the Cross as He suffered for us, remains a mystery. I only know that as I contemplated it again this morning it caused me to inwardly shudder and to humbly offer my worship and gratitude.
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