Few shared in the sorrows of Gethsemane. Most disciples weren't ready to witness the mysteries of "the agony." Focused on the Passover feast, they represent those who live by the letter but are still spiritual infants. Only eleven were allowed into Gethsemane to witness "this great sight." Among them, eight stayed at a distance, experiencing fellowship but not the intimate kind reserved for dearly beloved men.

Only three, greatly favored, neared the veil of our Lord's mysterious sorrow. Even they had to keep a stone's throw away. Jesus had to tread the winepress alone, without any by His side. Peter and the two sons of Zebedee represent a few mature believers who, having faced great trials, can somewhat grasp the depths of their Redeemer's passion.

Certain chosen souls are granted, for the sake of others and to prepare them for future trials, to enter the inner circle and hear the High Priest's pleas. They share in His sufferings and are conformed to His death. Yet, even they can't enter the deepest chambers of the Savior's grief. In the Greek liturgy, His sufferings are called "unknown." There, Jesus was "left alone," truly the "Unspeakable gift!" Watts captures it well: "And all the unknown joys he gives, Were bought with agonies unknown."