Agony in the Garden

Scripture Reading: Prayerfully read one or more of the following accounts of the Agony in the Garden.

Matthew 26:30–46
Mark 14:26–42
Luke 22:39–46

Context: The disciples must have been confused and worried about what Jesus spoke to them. He very clearly predicted His arrest, passion and death, as well as His resurrection. Jesus, Himself, enters into a time of very deep prayer and ultimate surrender to the will of the Father.

Reflection: Prayerfully enter into this most holy night with our Lord using the Scripture and these points if useful.

Try to imagine the scene. Dinner was concluded, and Jesus predicted to Peter that this night he would deny Jesus three times. Then they went to the garden, and Jesus withdrew to pray. First ponder the experience from the perspective of these disciples.
Hear Jesus say these words to you also, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” Reflect upon His invitation to you to remain with Him, in fidelity, through every cross.
Imagine Jesus’ prayer to the Father, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt.” Make this your prayer regarding all that God calls you to do and to endure.
The disciples were not praying. Jesus returned to them twice and both times they were sleeping. Ponder that reality from both the perspective of Jesus and the disciples.
After returning to prayer, Jesus entered deeper into the surrender of His human will: “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, thy will be done.” What do you need to pray “Thy will be done” to in your life?
Luke’s Gospel reveals that an angel appeared to Jesus to comfort Him while “his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down upon the ground.” Seek to experience the depth of interior agony Jesus felt.

Featured Image:Trevisani, Agony in the Garden

Introduction to Meditations for Lent

Table of Contents

Share this Page:

More Sharing Options