Devotional

And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. And when he came to the place, he said to them, "Pray that you may not enter into temptation." And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. - Luke 22: 39-44 (ESV)

When I read the above scripture I think of the great example that Jesus set for us in succumbing to the will of the Father. I'm someone who struggles to go to the Lord in prayer as often as I should. On a regular basis, I'm taught to take responsibility for my actions and "own it". Then I get a reminder—often from a fellow Christian at Arcola—that we can make our plans and try our best, but we must ultimately surrender to God's will. How much easier does life become for us when we remember to do so? We may not like the cup that has been put in front of us, but we can accept the cup with joyful obedience and proclaim "not my will, but Yours, be done!"

Our challenges can often be characterized as a considerable inconvenience, whereas Luke describes Jesus as being in agony. Yet His continued and fervent praying reminds us that eventually our prayers will provide us with the strength to persevere. "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ... For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28, 30).

Luke's words remind us that, yes, we have troubles in this world. But Jesus' sacrifice for us assures us that God's kingdom will indeed come for us. We only need to remember His perfect sacrifice for us and, as He did, go to the Lord often in prayer.

Prayer

Heavenly, gracious, all-powerful Father. I thank you for Your Word, which inspires me and allows me to draw nearer to You. I thank you for the church community you've placed me in who remind me to draw upon Your word for strength, direction, peace, and salvation. Father, I thank you especially for the sacrifice of Your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. In His holy name I pray. Amen.

Written by Rich Krygiel. Rich leads one of our men's ministry groups at Arcola Church. He is a devoted husband and father.