WATCHING IN PRAYER

WATCHING IN PRAYER!

Matt 26:37-38

37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.

38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.

Mark 14:37-38

37 And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour?

38 Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.

           The word “watch” in both these scriptures is the Greek word gregoreuo which means “to be vigilant and awake.” The word sounds like our English word “gregarious” which means “fond of company; sociable.” It is clear that Jesus wanted company while he was praying.

When about to experience great suffering, most people want to have someone with them, to help share the burden. Often in my pastoral ministry, I have sat with people at the hospital, waiting for the surgeon to come with a report. Being perfectly human, Jesus wanted companionship as He faced the cross, and He selected Peter, James, and John.

Paul expressed a desire to enter into league with Jesus in His suffering in Philippians 3:10. He said: “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.”

Is there anyone you might “watch” with while they suffer today? Does a weakened brother or sister need you to be vigilant in prayer on their behalf? Do they just need companionship? Think about it and then provide the ministry of your presence.

Dear Lord help me to be a watcher and a companion to those who are afflicted today. AMEN