First Sunday of Lent

First Sunday of Lent

He came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed him. When he reached the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not come into the time of trial.” Then he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done.” Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength. In his anguish he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground. When he got up from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping because of grief, and he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not come into the time of trial.”[1]

Meditation

            The image of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane can be mistaken for one of peace. It is dark and quiet, and the disciples are sleeping. Jesus, however, is agitated and anxious. No amount of physical exhaustion will grant him sleep.

            As we experience Jesus in the Garden, we are advised to take special care to stay awake with Jesus, rather than falling asleep with the disciples. This is the first Station of the Cross and the journey is beginning. Remain alert!

Spiritual discipline

            Attend worship at the church of your choice. Hold the picture of Jesus, desperately praying in the Garden, in your mind. In the evening, review the lessons, your notes, and your experience of the journey since Ash Wednesday.

Optional Music Video: Meditation Moment – Ash Wednesday

Prayer

            Lord Jesus, help me to stay awake with you and to remain in your presence as we begin this path together. Allow me a sense of the weight of earthly shame and iniquity laid upon you, for a portion of that falls on me, too. Help me remain humble and thankful. Amen.

This is the 7^thin a daily series titled The Stations of the Cross that will run through Easter 2026, at which time I will return to my weekly Life Notes.Life Notes are my explorations into mysteries that interest me. They are invitations for readers to explore more deeply into life’s mysteries. Engage with me or explore contemplative spiritual direction at ghildenbrand@outlook.com.

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[1] Luke 22:39-46