Several key events occurred the day before Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. This was a solemn day for Him, as He knew His time was approaching. In the evening, He shared the Last Supper with His disciples, instituting the Eucharist. He also washed their feet, a practice common in biblical times but considered one of the lowest forms of servant duty. Jesus’ act was a radical teaching of humility and service. He then gave parting speeches, offering reassurance and closing with a prayer for His disciples that still encourages followers today (John 15-17).
As the hour grew late, he went with the disciples to a place called Gethsemane. He instructed them to wait there, where he took only Peter, James and John further into the garden. He then asked the three chosen disciples to wait, watch and pray while He went a short distance from them to pray. This time in the garden is where Jesus experienced a deep sorrow and anguish, more profound than anything He’d experienced in His time on Earth. It was so great that it put a tremendous strain on His physical body. So much so that Luke 22:43 tells us that an angel appeared to Jesus and gave Him strength. And in all of the wrestling, Jesus never wavered from trusting the will of the Father to walk the road of suffering for love’s sake and the joy set before Him. And when the moment arrived, there was no more angst, only steadfast resolve and a confidence to see His purpose through.
Facing His greatest trial, Jesus shows us how to approach our own toughest battles. First, His desire to keep His closest disciples near highlights the value of community. He shared His deep grief with them and asked that they stay alert and pray. And most importantly, His longing to be alone with His Father during this inner turmoil guides us to turn to God in ours. We can lay our hearts before the Lord, knowing He cares deeply for us. He never turns us away and provides what we need to persevere. Time with our Father ministers to our heart, soul, mind, and body. We can face challenges with the same steadfast resolve as Jesus by choosing to trust God.