Today’s reading: Luke 22:7-23:25
My selection: Luke 22:41-44
41 And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” 43 And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. 44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
My reflections: Here Luke gives further insight into prayer and Jesus’ prayer life in particular:
1. Not my will, but yours be done. Jesus showed His trust in the Father even if the cup of suffering should not be taken from Him. He bowed to the Father’s wise will.
2. Strength in suffering. The immediate answer to Jesus’ prayer came by the appearance of an angel who strengthened Him to endure, but did not take away the agony and the pain.
3. Prayer answered in the negative. God did not give what His Son requested. It is not a sin nor a shame to get a prayer request answered in the negative. Jesus did.
My challenge: Prayer is a vital part of the life of a disciple of Jesus Christ. Does it not seem that God is quick to strengthen His children as they call upon Him, even if He does not answer their requests in the positive?
Persevere in prayer even when the answer is “no” or “wait”. Scripture promises “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” James 4:8a. Jesus did not attempt to face the cross without prayer, can we face our trials without it?
Tomorrow’s reading: Luke 23:26-24:53
Comments