Re:Verse reading–Matthew 26:36-46 (day two)
And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be grieved and distressed. Then He *said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved, to the point of death; remain here and keep watch with Me.” vs. 37-38
The apostles’ role in this story has always been one that garners derision from the reader. Rightly so, they were to watch and pray and they fell asleep. This is a cautionary tale that we should all remain vigilant. I never considered, however, Jesus’ desire for company. He went and prayed alone, but before that he took with him some of his closest friends that they may share this time with him. They came to mourn with Jesus, to pray for him, and to protect if need be. Is Jesus giving us a pattern for grieving here? Knowing what lay before him, Jesus took with him friends to share in this trial. Are you there? Have you considered bringing others to watch, pray, and grieve with you? Maybe you should.
