March 13

And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly.

Luke 22:44.

HAVING noticed the causes of Christ's agony, we now proceed to consider the conduct which he adopted, the course which he pursued. It is said, that "he prayed," that he prayed "more earnestly." The prayer of Christ on this occasion was, that if it were possible, the "cup might pass from him." As a man, Christ possessed a natural aversion to suffering. He did not solicit the removal of the cup however upon any ground, and without respect to any thing else, but only desired it, if his great undertaking could be effected without it. If not, he was still willing to drink it, even to its dregs. Hence we see his humble deference to the will of his Father, and his implicit and pious resignation, when he said, "nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt." Let it be observed, that the prayer was offered with affectionate confidence. He addressed God as his Father. He knew that relationship was not, could not be dissolved. He knew that he had ever done those things which were acceptable in his sight, and that the Father was ever well pleased in him; and that however his wrath might be kindled against sin, that still his spotless soul, presented to him an object of the highest complacency and delight. On this occasion it is also said, that he kneeled in prayer, until overpowered by his agony, he lay stretched prostrate on the cold earth, until the spot was crimsoned with his sacred blood. It is also said, that he prayed the "more" earnestly; the greater his distress, the more vehemently did he appeal to his Father, until his whole soul was as it were poured out before him. We notice finally, in reference to his prayer, that it was virtually answered. The cup itself was not taken away, but the overwhelming fear and dread were removed. Hence the passage, (Hebrews 5:7.) when rightly interpreted, signifies, that "he was heard and delivered from that fear." That fear which drunk up his spirits, that distressing amazement was removed, and he was empowered to arise, and to finish his career of suffering; thus accomplishing the whole work which the Father had given him to do. We learn from this subject, the Christian's refuge in distress, the only resource in trouble, and that is prayer. Fervent believing prayer, will either remove our sorrows, or bring down into our hearts that gracious assistance, by which we shall be enabled to glorify God in our afflictions, and thus obtain a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.