June 9, 2026
— Matteo Ricci · Source: Twenty-Five Sayings, no. 13
Mark 14:36 He said, “Abba, Father, you are all-powerful; take this cup away from me. Yet may your will be done, not my will.”
Matteo Ricci's maxims and Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane serve as a mirror, reflecting the weaknesses within us. When facing life's difficulties or the challenges of ministry, our instinct often leads us to seek external things to go our way—hoping for a change in circumstances and a smoother path ahead. However, true faith is not about making God obey our commands, but about surrendering our will to His sovereignty. Jesus, facing the excruciating pain of the cross, though experiencing physical trembling, made the most perfect submission. This reminds me that a mature spiritual life lies not in whether circumstances are favorable, but in whether we "walk in submission to His will". Letting go of the desire for absolute control over the situation and willingly saying, "Your will be done," is the beginning of true inner peace.
Loving Heavenly Father, You are the Lord of all things, and You know the lack and weakness in my heart. Whenever I feel anxious in my current situation, wanting to change my circumstances according to my own will, or praying for external things to go my way, I ask the Holy Spirit to gently remind me, to let me see the unreserved obedience of the Lord Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Lord, You can do all things; grant me a vessel of obedience and a heart that submits to Your will. Facing the uncontrollable tomorrow, I am willing to surrender my sovereignty, plans, and worries completely. I do not ask that everything be as I wish, but that my heart be renewed and transformed, that I may have Your heart. May Your will move freely in my life, as it does in heaven. In the holy name of Jesus Christ, Amen.