“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matt 26:41 –
Jesus stated this truth to his disciples after they failed to remain awake with him during his deep sorrow in the Garden of Gethsemane. Earlier he told them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even unto death; remain here, and watch with me.”
The word “watch” here in the original Greek is “gregoreuo.” As used here, Jesus is not saying to “take a quick look.” Rather His expression emphasizes the importance of vigilantly keeping watchfully alert, and awake with Him.
The trials of the world cause us to suffer, weakening us. Weakened, we are vulnerable despite our heart’s desire for Jesus. May we, in our suffering, continue to vigilantly remain alert to Him, remembering His suffering, finding hope in His death and resurrection.
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