Mark 14:27-42

NOT WHAT I WILL, BUT WHAT YOU WILL

Keywords 14:36

"Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will."

 

1. Prediction of Peter’s denial (27-31)

On the way to Gethsemane, Jesus predicted the disciples’ falling according to Zechariah’s prophecy. As Peter disagreed, he predicted Peter’s denial of Jesus that night. Peter and the other disciples insisted that they would never disown Jesus. Jesus knew Peter more than he knew himself. Peter should have asked the Lord’s help humbly.

 

2. Jesus’ prayer at Gethsemane (32-42)

As deeply distressed and troubled by the cup of suffering, Jesus’ soul was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. The weight of our sins on him and becoming a curse for us overwhelmed Jesus with sorrow who knew no sin. Then he prayed, “Abba, Father…Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” Jesus overcame his own will and submitted himself to God’s will. Jesus didn’t pray to quit, but to be strengthened to do God’s will. The disciples fall into sleep, instead of falling to pray. We often tell God what we want and need. But how often do we pray to overcome the flesh and submit ourselves to God’s will? We are to watch and pray for God’s will to be done.

 

Prayer Lord, with troubled heart, we come to you. Give me strength to do your will, not my own will.

One Word Fall to the ground and pray