Matthew 26:36-40
When traveling any distance at all Peggy and I have an agreement that we can let the passenger know when we feel drowsy so that we can change spots and allow the driver to rest. The occasion rarely comes up, and I believe it is because when we are driving we realize that our awareness is very important for the safety of ourselves and our family.
When faced with something very important most people can control their physical needs enough to deal with the situation. But sometimes physical needs overtake us. I think next to Peter’s denial of Christ this situation is one of the most well-known instances where the disciples let Jesus down.
What did Jesus want from his disciples? Why did he bring only three of them further into the garden? What is Jesus’ struggle? How did the disciples disappoint?
Jesus went to the garden to spend some time in prayer to prepare himself for the sacrifice of the crucifixion he was about to face. He wanted these close and dear followers to stay near to give him support, but the disciples were distracted from their experience of Jesus by the physical needs they were facing. Jesus knew what was ahead and knew he had to struggle with his own temptation to avoid what needed to be done.
But the disciples were not aware of the importance of what was ahead. Had they known what Jesus was going through they might not have fallen asleep.
However, there are many people who know all about Jesus who allow themselves to be distracted by physical needs. Many won’t come to worship because it is too early, or too dull. Others are off enjoying some relaxation and can’t be bothered with committing time to God.
What about you? Do you take your faith seriously enough that you can suppress your physical needs enough to spend time experiencing Jesus? Or do your physical requirements take precedence over Christ?
DAILY CHALLENGE: How can you be certain your physical needs don’t distract you from your faith?
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