And He said to them,
"My soul is deeply grieved to the point of death; remain here and keep
watch." (Mark 14:34 NASB)
While Jesus was much burdened about the Cross at this
point of time, there was also a great concern for His disciples. His soul was
grieved not just because of the Cross but also partly for His sheep. He was
going to be struck as the shepherd of the flock. And when He was arrest and eventually
gone, the sheep would be in distress. Leading towards His death on the cross,
this Shepherd still have much burden for His sheep. That is the Jesus we have.
He has great burden and love for his sheep. (This love for the church is also
found in Paul in the midst of his suffering. 2 Cor 11:28)
At that point of time,
the disciples had to be instructed to keep watch of the coming 'attack''. They
were to be on the alert and on their guard lest they fall away. They were to
exercise their own responsibilities as the Shepherd had to carry His own cross.
Yet I believe that Jesus was praying for them as He prayed to the Father for
Himself. His love for His sheep is simply amazing.
Now at this point of
time, the scenario is slightly different. We have a risen Lord and He does not
have to face death and carry that burden anymore. Presently He is seated at the
right hand of the Father interceding for us (Romans 8:34). He is constantly praying
for us, His sheep. And for that, we can take heart and courage in our journey.
But does it mean we
don't need to watch and pray? No. We still have the responsibility to watch and
pray. But now, our security is in the love of the One who has been free from
His burden. His focus is on us now.
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