When Jesus was Sorrowful
“Then he said to them, ‘My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.’” You are likely familiar with the speaker and context of this statement even without identification. Recorded in Matthew 26.38, these words provide an uncommon portrait of Jesus. It is a description of deep sorrow and intense despair. The phrase, “even to death,” illustrates the magnitude of his emotion at that time.
Let’s be honest. This is difficult to understand since this is Jesus. He lacked the emotional flaws which plague us continually. His self-control was perfect. His faith was faultless and his relationship with his Father was seamless. Every portion of his life was exactly as the Father intended. So, things are supposed to go well when all of the above boxes are checked, right? We shouldn’t find ourselves in positions that cause intense sorrow and despair when we achieve these ideals, right?
Obviously, the Christianity that some imagine may not exist. It is okay to be sorrowful, and we should recognize that we will encounter situations that create intense feelings like those experienced by Jesus. Our lesson comes from Jesus’ response to this condition. There are two practical thoughts to consider the next time we face intense suffering.
First, Jesus sought help. As he retreated from the group, he still brought Peter, James, and John with him. Matthew illustrates two points of interaction between Jesus and these three disciples. First, he expressed his sorrow to them. Matthew’s account of this interaction is obviously quite limited. Did Jesus say more than Matthew recorded? Possibly, but the point is that Jesus expressed his sorrow to a close group of friends. He obviously felt no shame because of his sorrow, and it did not convey any sort of weakness. We all need confidants who are willing to listen when we need to speak. Second, he asked for their help to keep watch. Honestly, I don’t know exactly why they were to keep watch. I know it was important enough for him to later criticize their inability to stay awake. Truthfully, our helpers may not always live up to our expectation, but in times of crisis we can all use a helping hand.
Second, Jesus prayed to the Father. Then, he prayed again. Finally, he prayed a third time. Do we see the crystal-clear pattern? I wish I knew everything that he prayed. However, that is not the point of Matthew’s writing. He rose up from his time of prayer with full determination to face his trial. His sorrow was real, but it did not deter him from accomplishing the mission of his Father.
Remember the following summary from the time when Jesus was sorrowful.
- Sorrow exists regardless of one’s level of faith, maturity, and mental health.
- Sometimes we all need help.
- God can provide solutions even when he does not fix the problem.
- Pray – Pray Again – Pray Again.