Jesus went with [His disciples] to a place called Gethsemane.

Matthew 26:36a

When the Lord God created humans, He first provided for and talked with them in a garden — the Garden of Eden. It was there that they found peace and communication. Gardens are indeed a place of comfort and tranquility. It is no wonder that Jesus, on the eve of His impending death on the cross, journeyed to another garden that He often frequented — the Garden of Gethsemane. He needed to talk with His Father about the events that lay ahead and receive the assurance that this was indeed the right course of action to fulfill His mission. We have spent the last six weeks of Lent “journeying with Jesus” as He sets His eyes upon the cross. Let us now join Him in the garden where He unloads the burden that He has been given and seeks the Father’s comfort and power. Where do you go to communicate with our Father? He is ready and eager to listen and share His guidance, wisdom, and strength. He enthusiastically welcomes those times.

Don Luepke
Fremont, IN

Lord, provide that “garden” for me, that special place of tranquility where You and I can walk and talk. Amen.

Reflect: Find and read the lyrics of the hymn, “I Come to the Garden Alone.”

Read: Genesis 2:8-15 and Mark 14:32-36