In Life’s Most Pressing Moments...

In times of great stress or sorrow, we tend to close ourselves off and retreat to the confines of self. Jesus, in this state of mind, moments away from His arrest and crucifixion, took James, John, and Peter, His three closest companions, with Him to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. This shows us the importance of having someone close to you when you are in greatest need. Most of the time, just being there is enough, not even saying a word. Here’s a Swedish proverb that helps illustrate this point: sorrow shared is half sorrow, and joy shared is double joy. Regardless of which situation you might be in, surround yourself with your closest friends, who will help share your burden. Or be the friend of one who is in need. Jesus’ example should be our example of what to do during life’s most pressing moments. Be there.

36 Then Jesus went with them to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and He said, “Sit here while I go over there to pray.” 37 He took Peter and Zebedee’s two sons, James and John, and He became anguished and distressed. 38 He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with Me.” Matthew 26:36-38