The Thrill of God's Will

The evening is proceeding as usual in today's reading (Luke 22:24-46), as Jesus walks over to His normal camping place in the garden with His followers. But when He gets there He says something different; "Pray that you will not fall into temptation." And going a little farther, that is just what He does. But His words are sounding even more strange; "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."
 It is then that the Father's will starts becoming evident as an angel appears from heaven to strengthen Jesus. I think in the crisis of the moment we often skip over that part. But an angel coming down in answer to prayer is a big deal! As Jesus went on to sweat blood in agonizingly fervent prayer, I know that angel from His Father was a huge encouragement.


I'm thinking that angel answers to prayer can be quite thrilling as we remember Who they are from. Let's not underestimate the possibilities of God's grace to answer prayer and get us through hard times.


Look out for the angel!