Matthew 26:36-46
Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee and began to be grieved and agitated. Then he said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake with me.” And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me, yet not what I want but what you want.” Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Again he went away for the second time and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” Again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. So leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words. Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Now the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us be going. Look, my betrayer is at hand.”
Reflection Questions
- What word, phrase, or image is drawing you into today’s Scripture passage?
- Can you sit with Jesus for awhile, present to this moment with Him?
Prayer
Holy Jesus,
as we sit with You
in moments of quiet contemplation
and deep struggle,
awaken our hearts
to Your faithful, steadfast presence
and Your sacrificial, transforming love.
As we approach the cross,
we join our hearts to Yours:
open to Your love that defeats death
and ushers in a new world.
Amen.
Anchor & Hope Church 