Monday, March 23, 2015

Jesus in Gethsemane





3.23.2015 Monday of Lent 5                Mark 14:32-52  Jesus at Gethsemane and His arrest


Jesus in Gethsemane 

Jesus is arrested by members of the religious ruling Council. They apprehend Him at night, outside the city to avoid causing a riot or an uprising. Although it appears that His enemies have the upper hand as these events unfold the Father is in completely in control and all of these events. His plan of salvation will be worked out according to His divine plan.  Nothing is left to chance.

Earlier that evening Jesus had prayed. The cup of suffering He is about to drink will not be removed. Three times He had asked the Father that it be removed if there were another way, another opportunity, another alternative, another course of action. But, of course there was none. There could be and now is only one plan of salvation, only one moral standard, only one program for the ages. The Old Testament prophets spoke of future events. Now their predictions will be verified. The trial, passion, suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus is about to unfold.       

Be gracious to your people, we entreat you, O Lord, that they, repenting day by day of the things that displease you, may be more and more filled with love of you and of your commandments; and, being supported by your grace in this life, may come to the full enjoyment of eternal life in you everlasting kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen[2]


[1] Schnorr von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use
[2] Collect for Monday of Lent 5,   http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm

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