36th Day of Lent- Tuesday in Holy Week
The Discipline of Watching
"Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation." Luke 22:46

The specific role of the disciples from this point forward in the passion narrative is rather vague.  We know Peter was following at a distance after Jesus was arrested, and then denied knowing him three times.  Judas, of course, played the role of the betrayer.  The other ten are not specifically mentioned, except that Luke does say after Jesus dies, "But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things." (Luke 23:49)  Were the disciples among these?  Regardless, they surely knew exactly what was taking place, the crucifixion of Jesus.

When Jesus told them to "rise and pray" in the garden, he was telling them to be alert and ready.  They were about to witness difficult things.  Don't give in to despair, but have faith in what God can do.  Through all that took place, God did not give up on them.  The remaining disciples maintained enough faith for God still to use them. They became important witnesses to the cross and resurrection.  Let us also pray that we not be tempted to give up on God, but trust God can use the faith we have to carry out His will.