A Serving Leadership Insight from the Life of Jesus Christ (Mark 14:32-42)

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (See Mark 14:32-42 for full text)

In Mark 14:32–42, Jesus took his inner circle of Peter, James, and John deeper with him into the garden to pray. Overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death, Jesus requested that his close friends stay close by and keep watch with him. He desperately needed their support. Going just a little distance away, Jesus fell to the ground and prayed. Returning a little later to his disciples, he found them asleep. Addressing Peter, Jesus said: “Couldn’t you keep watch for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Rather than focusing on his own distress, Jesus concerned himself with their upcoming troubles. Twice more he went away to pray. Both times upon his return they continued to sleep. When Jesus was arrested, the disciples were caught by surprise and fled. In contrast, Jesus overcame temptation and submitted to his Father’s will.

KEY QUESTIONS: Who would surround me if I went through deep sorrow or some other overwhelming experience? How might I ask for their support? Would I be able to also focus on their needs while desperately needing their support and care? If so, what might that look like?