Mark 14:36
And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.
Mark 14:36
Abba, Father—this is intimate address, showing Jesus’ personal relationship with God. “All things are possible to Thee” acknowledges God’s omnipotence. Jesus asks to take away the cup but submits to the Father’s will: “not what I will, but what thou wilt.” This is the hinge of the entire passion narrative: the request for removal is real, but the Son yields to the Father’s plan. The language reveals relational intimacy, trust, and obedience, and it foreshadows the cross’ deep obedience. The “cup” is the symbolic vessel of suffering, judgment, and sin-bearing that Jesus will drink on behalf of humanity. This moment teaches the disciples, and us, that prayer is not primarily about getting what we want but aligning our desires with God’s plan.
This scene crystallizes the mystery of Jesus’ incarnate obedience. It demonstrates a model of prayer that moves from honest longing to surrender. Theologically, it affirms the Trinity-centered, self-giving love at the heart of the gospel. It also reassures believers that God answers prayer although sometimes not in the way we expect, and that the path to salvation involves suffering embraced in trust.
When facing painful trials, imitate Jesus’ prayer: honestly present your “cup” to God, then reaffirm trust in His will. Practical steps: pray specifically about your fears and desired outcomes; seek to discern whether your longing aligns with the Father’s plan; and cultivate a posture of surrender by rehearsing “not my will but yours” in daily decisions. This practice deepens dependence on God and cultivates resilience.
Cross-References: Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42; Hebrews 5:7–9; Romans 8:32; Psalm 37:5