He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.
Ver. 42. The second time, and prayed] Prayer is that arrow of deliverance that would be multiplied, 2 Kings 13:17. God holds off on purpose that he may hear often of us, that we may ply the throne of grace, and give him no rest. The Church commenceth thrice the same suit, but riseth every time in her earnestness. Psalms 80:3 ; Psalms 80:7 ; Psa 80:19 If thy petition be not lawful, never prefer it, as if it be, never give it over. God suspends you, to make you eager.
If this cup may not pass, except I drink] It passeth then, even while we are drinking of it. Το ποκρον μικρον, hold out faith and patience. It is but a storm, and will soon be over. It is but a death, and that is but the daybreak of eternal brightness. It is but winking (as that martyr said), and thou shall be in heaven presently.