TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

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.” Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.”

Matthew 26:39–42

DEVOTIONAL

by Stephanie Reloj

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German pastor and theologian during World War II, was deeply troubled by the atrocities of the Nazi regime and spoke out against it, ultimately joining a plot to overthrow Hitler. Despite knowing the dire consequences, he remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to justice. He was arrested and eventually executed, but his writings and legacy continue to inspire many. Bonhoeffer’s suffering and sacrifice for a greater cause mirror, in a small way, the infinitely greater suffering and sacrifice of Jesus. Just as Bonhoeffer endured for the sake of truth and justice, Jesus endured unimaginable anguish to fulfill God’s plan for our salvation.

Knowing the immense suffering that awaited Him, Jesus prayed to His Father, asking if there was any other way to save humanity but submitting fully to God’s will: “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39). The weight of the world’s sin pressed upon Him, causing Him deep sorrow, even to the point of death (Mark 14:34).

Despite His anguish, Jesus found His disciples sleeping instead of praying. This scene starkly contrasts the weakness of humanity with the unfathomable grace of God. While Jesus faced the ultimate trial, His closest followers could not even stay awake to support Him. This failure highlights our own weaknesses and the boundless love and grace of Christ. As Scripture reminds us, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane shows His humanity and His obedience to God’s will. His willingness to endure suffering for our sake is a testament to His incredible love for us. The disciples’ inability to stay awake and support Jesus in His time of need serves as a humbling reminder of our own weaknesses and need for God’s grace.

 

PRAYER