What Jesus Did! 'Deep Distress' — Mark 14:32-33

Monday, October 28, 2024

[Jesus and the disciples] went to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and Jesus said, "Sit here while I go and pray." He took Peter, James, and John with him, and he became deeply troubled and distressed.
— Mark 14:32-33 NLT

Key Thought

We must never underestimate the emotional and spiritual challenges that Jesus faced as approached being rejected, deserted, and crucified. The battle for our souls took place at Gethsemane as much as it did at the cross. In Gethsemane, Jesus not only had to face those who hated him and those who would crucify him; he also had to battle his own humanity and will. In Gethsemane, the path that Jesus would follow - the path to the humiliation of the cross - was determined by him because he was the only one who could accept it. Jesus offered himself to the Father and to us knowing the dire consequences.

Today's Prayer

O precious and Almighty Father, words cannot express my sadness. I know that Jesus fully realized what lay ahead of him. I know that this knowledge caused him great anguish as he looked at what he would face. Thank you for such love. And to you, Lord Jesus, what can I say but thank you, bless you, and praise you for your obedient and sacrificial love. To you, dear Father, belongs all glory, honor, and praise. To you, dear Savior, belongs all respect, reverence, and humble appreciation. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 14:32-33 NLT — "Sit here while I go and pray."

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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