THE Oil Press of Prayer

Gethsemane: The Oil Press of Prayer

Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, ‘Sit here while I go over there and pray.’ He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.’
— Matthew 26:36–38 (NIVUK)

The name Gethsemane means 'oil press' in Hebrew. It is a fitting picture of what happens in the place of prayer. Our Gethsemane moments are when we feel pressed on every side by life’s trials, when the weight of sorrow or conflict bears down upon us. Yet, out of this pressing comes the oil—the precious anointing oil of the Holy Spirit.

In Gethsemane, Jesus invited His disciples to watch and pray. He invites us to do the same: to be aware, awake, and honest before God. It is in these moments of deep vulnerability that we commune with the Father most intimately.

When you find yourself in your own Gethsemane—your hour of darkness or anguish—don’t run from it. Stay. Pour out your heart to God. Let the pressing produce something precious within you. The oil that flows from your consecration and surrender will bring healing and power—not only for you, but for others.

🙏 Prayer:
Lord, make me watchful and willing like You. Teach me to lean on You in vulnerability and trust. Help me follow Your footsteps with honesty and integrity. Raise the standard of my leadership through communion with You. And give me the courage to invite others to walk beside me on this journey, just as You did.
Amen.

Sharon 

Written 23. October 2025