Then he went a short distance farther and fell on his face and prayed, “My Father, if it’s possible, take this cup of suffering away from me. However—not what I want but what you want.”
Matthew 26:39

The Last Supper is over.  Jesus slowly walks with three of his closest friends to the garden where he often went to pray.  This time he’s very sad—and frightened too.  He knows that one of his disciples is going to betray him to the Jewish leaders.  Peter, James and John fall asleep as the sadness of Jesus creeps over them like a great shadow. Jesus is alone with his thoughts and his prayer to his Father.

Imagine being there in that garden—only you’re awake to watch all that’s happening  A shaft of moonlight shines on Jesus’ face.  It is very quiet—like the calm before a storm. Feel your love for Jesus and your sadness for what is about to happen.  Stay next to Jesus as he gets questioned by the mean religious leaders.

For two more Fridays we’ll stay close to Jesus as he walks toward the hill of Calvary where he died for you and me. Let’s be with him to the end.  

 Matthew 26:36–75

Examples of Bible Breaths Learn More…

Jesus grieving unto death v. 38
Not my will, but Yours be done. v. 39
Awake and watching with You v. 40
Peter remembered and wept v. 75

Check out Study Tools in BibleGateway.
I especially recommend the free resource
in Matthew Henry’s Commentary.‘s Commentary.

In Year A, we continue to read from the Gospel of St. Matthew.

These Firestarters are for families with children. For the Firestarters in the original edition, I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or table! Check the menu options at the site for more information.