What does Mark 14:39 mean?

Jesus knows that He will have to face the crucifixion and the corresponding separation from God. He has known this since before He joined the Father and the Holy Spirit in creating the world. Still, He prays that the Father will make a way so that He will not have to endure what He must (Mark 14:35–36).

It may seem odd to pray when God knows everything; odder still to pray for something we're pretty sure is not in God's plan. Prayer is more than pushing buttons on a vending machine. It is a way to acknowledge our feelings and put them into words, so God can work in us and make our hearts more in line with His. Jesus shows that there is nothing wrong with going to God and admitting our fear and reluctance to follow Him—if we hold on to the submission to Him and resolve to obey Him anyway. Our time with God in prayer will give us strength and courage to face what we must. It will help clear away resentment and replace it with love and trust. If Jesus needed this time with God, it's foolish to think we don't.

When Jesus starts praying, He is so distressed He feels like He could die (Mark 14:34). He sweats so profusely the drops are like drops of blood (Luke 22:44). As He prays, an angel comes to comfort Him (Luke 22:43). But Peter, James, and John can't keep their eyes open (Mark 14:40). May we pray and watch that we don't fall into temptation.