As I reflect on Jesus' suffering in the garden I have always been struck by three lines in Luke's account.
First, we have Jesus asking to be delivered from his anguish.
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42, TNIV)
Jesus does not receive a direct answer from the Father, and this is one of the most painful burdens he has to bear. But he is not abandoned by the Father, as a comforter is sent.
“An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.” (Luke 22:43, TNIV)
The angel comes to his side and gives him strength. Provides him with a shot of energy so that he will be able to do what he has been sent to do.
Normally, at this point in the story (at least if it were a modern story), the hero would stand up full of purpose and turn to face his fate. Which usually means fighting all the bad guys who come to get him.
This, however, is not what happens.
“And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” (Luke 22:44, TNIV)
The strength Jesus receives only shows him that the cup of suffering will not be taken from him. It only confirms that he must walk the road to the cross and give himself for us. This confirmation causes him MORE anguish, and he prays MORE earnestly.
The presence of the angel increases his suffering.
I can't help but wonder if this is how God responds to our suffering sometimes. Don't get me wrong, I am not comparing anything we go through to what Jesus suffered in the garden and on the cross.
But maybe God answers our prayers for help with strength for the suffering rather than relief from it. This answer may actually increase our suffering, but we can be certain that we have not been abandoned.