Modern Day Garden of Gethsemani
At the conclusion of last night’s Liturgy, which is simply a pause in the one Liturgy of these days of the Easter Triduum, we accompanied Jesus and his disciples “across the Kidron valley to where there was a garden, into which he and his disciples entered.” (John 18: 1)
Jesus had a very long night. He prayed to his Father that he could remain faithful in enduring his Passion. He prayed to the Father that he could freely and lovingly lay down his life for our salvation. He prayed for his disciples (and us) that we would not be put to the test.
Jesus was arrested and taken to the High Priest. His Passion has begun. Through the night, he is questioned “about his disciples and about his doctrine.” (John 18:19) Perhaps most painfully, the disciples of Jesus begin to flee in fear, and Jesus watches as Peter denies him three times.
“Then they brought Jesus from Caiaphas to the praetorium. It was morning.” (John 18:28)
Let us continue to remain with Jesus today … and always.
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