And He came and found them sleeping. He said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not stay awake for one hour?
The disciples’ sleep shows human weakness at the very moment when watchfulness was needed most. The Lord addresses Peter in particular—“Simon”—as if reminding him of his natural frailty after the self-confident promises he had made a little earlier. The words “Could you not stay awake for one hour?” are a gentle rebuke, yet they also carry deep sorrow. Peter had promised to die with the Lord, but he could not stay awake with Him for one hour. This teaches that great promises must be confirmed by prayer and humility; otherwise, in temptation they will quickly give way.