Verse-a-day 4 April 2012
Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane – part 3
Quintus Heine
Luke 22:43,44 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. |
Every Christian feels uneasy when they read this verse. Can it be that Jesus endured so much pain and anguish for you and me? Jesus was afraid. So afraid that his sweat become like drops of blood. The phenomenon Luke describes here is known as in medical science. There are historical references of people who have experienced it when unexpectedly given a death sentence. Around the sweat glands, there are multiple blood vessels in a net-like form. Under the pressure of great stress, these vessels can rupture. The blood mixes with sweat and gives the impression that the person is sweating blood.
The anguish that Jesus experienced must have been excruciating. He carried the sins of humanity. His whole heart and mind would have been under the strain of it. It was so bad that God sent an angel because he knew that Jesus needed support.
Now imagine how much hurt and anguish it caused God to see his child suffer like that. God loved the world so much that he gave his son the punishment for sin so that you and I may share in eternal life!
It is in these circumstances that John. 3:16 becomes a reality for each of us. Could it be that you and I do not take this wonderful invitation seriously?
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not persih but have eternal life. |
Wherever you are right now, take a moment to be still before God and think about what he has done for you.
Prayer: Lord – Easter reminds of how much pain you endured for me and I feel so wretched. Thank you for loving me so infinitely, that you sacrificed Jesus Christ's life for me. I give my life to you anew!