Agony in The Garden

 "41. And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,

42. Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.

43. And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.

44. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: band his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground." (Luke 22: 41-44)

I love this painting by Franz Schwartz. It is of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, when an angel is sent by Heavenly Father to comfort His son in his greatest hour of need. 

This picture really touches me. So many pictures of the savior make him look unable to feel pain or any other emotion, but this picture perfectly shows that he felt all that we have gone through and more. He suffered so much that he was fragile and in need of comfort. It helps me connect more closely to him, and it helps me more fully appreciate all he has done for me, and everyone. 

The angel looks so much to me as a mother figure, bringing strength and comfort to him. Like a mother would truly do for her children. I can't help but wonder if this angel was a really great mother in her life, or life to come. God couldn't comfort His son himself but still cares and morned with him as a father would do. 

Jesus is perfect, but still suffered. We can do our best but we will still have our struggles in life. But God is loving and cares for us, he will send us "angels" when we need them. Look for the tender mercy's in your life. Then thank your Heavenly Father and return that favor by helping others in their time of need. 

Ps. This weeks posts will all be about the tender mercy's I have seen each day in my own life. 

-Anna Lynn