The First Station
The Agony of Jesus in the Garden of Olives
Bible Reading
Then they came to a place named Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, 'Sit here while I pray.' He took with him Peter, James, and John, and he began to be troubled and distressed. Then he said to them, 'My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch.' He advanced a little and fell to the ground and prayed that if it were possible the hour might pass by him; he said, 'Abba, Father, all things are possible to you. Take this cup away from me, but not what I will but what you will.' Mark 14:32-36
Meditation
Jesus felt sorrow and dread over what lay ahead of him. He prayed for the burden to be lifted and the cross to be removed, but only if the Father willed it so. When Christ saw clearly the he must drink of the bitter cup, then our Lord totally accepted his future. 'Not my will, but thine be done.' His example teaches us how to pray at all times, especially in the midst of our own crosses and cups of suffering.
| Back | The Second Station of the Cross |