July 15, 2015 – Matthew 26:39-41

And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:39-41This portion of scripture makes me so sad.  Jesus is ready to go through the most difficult time on earth — and his companions for three years — could not stay awake and pray with Him.  Jesus is ready to take upon himself the weight of sin of all peoples as a sacrifice — giving his life.  And the disciples could not support him in prayer.  They simply fell asleep.The telling words echo down through the ages, Watch and Pray!  These two activities go together.  Praying without watching is not enough.  Watching without praying is not enough. Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.  Colossians 4:2  This verse adds more.  Thanksgiving. Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. I Corinthians 16:13.The third time, signifying that Jesus really cares, he asks the disciples to pray.  He desires us to stay with Him.  There is time to sleep later.Who is it who brings comfort, gives us peace and love?  Always on call, Jesus is always present.  He cares and loves us beyond all understanding.  Will we choose to be His?  Will we watch and pray through our lives?Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” And 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 again. Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Sleep and take your rest later on. See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Matthew 26:43-45