But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast love of God for ever and ever. I will thank you for ever, because of what you have done. In the presence of the faithful I will proclaim your name, for it is good. (Psalm 52: 8-9)

Today's psalms are full of wicked victories, betrayals, plots, mischief, and evil. Today's gospel lesson is Jesus at Gethsemane asking that the cup of crucifixion be allowed to pass from him.

I perceive that humankind might have chosen to accept Jesus and what a wholly different life we would now be living. I perceive that Jesus might have chosen to put aside or never take up his ministry. What a wholly different life we would now be living. But Jesus prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want."

Jesus was like a green olive tree deeply rooted in God's purpose. Even on the edge of an unjust and torturous death Jesus not only deferred to God's will but gave thanks for it.