Mark 14:36

Mark 14:36 – “Abba, Father,” He said, “Everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”

        As Jesus drew closer to the hour of His sacrifice it began to weigh heavy on Him. We see here that Jesus did not want to die. He was getting ready to go through excruciating pain, torment and ultimately be separated from God. There is nothing on this earth that could be worse.

        In Jesus prayer we can see His submission to God. He says, “Not what I will but what you will.” Jesus was not ready, but He knew the time had come. Later we see it said of Him that, “for the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, scorning its shame.”

        So in order to fulfill God’s will in His life we see two things at work. First we see submission. Jesus put aside His own desires to obey what God had told Him to do. Next we see Him looking beyond the situation to the fruit that would come because of His obedience.

        As we learn from watching Jesus, we can apply these two things in our lives as well. Jesus told us we will face hard times, but we can make it through. When Jesus faced the darkest time in His life He first submitted to God. Then He looked past the trouble to the joy that waited for Him on the other side.

        When we face hard times we must follow Jesus example. First, submit to God and all that He has for you. Then, when you are facing trials, look past them to the joy on the other side. Because of Christ we have the joy of eternal life with God to look to.