Psalm 22 (21):12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

You are my God; do not leave me, for trouble is approaching. Therefore, O my God, do not turn away from me, for anguish is close at hand, as it resides within my flesh. There is no one to aid me. Who will assist if You do not provide assistance?

The multitude of disciples abandoned Him during that moment. Subsequently, the prophet predicts the various forms of suffering.

The holy Evangelists Matthew and Mark recount how Jesus began to sorrow and yearn for support, and subsequently, all the disciples abandoned Him and fled (Matt. 26:37, 56, Mk. 14:33).

Deliverance from eternal separation from God represents an immense trial, is it not? The absence of a Savior is perhaps the greatest anguish. Christ arrived to redeem the souls of those in despair, who had long awaited His arrival. He came to shatter the impenetrable gates and break the chains of captivity, liberating those once held in despair. This was fulfilled when numerous bodies of the saints who had passed away were raised and went into the genuine holy city of God (Matthew 27:52-53).

In this passage, he appeals to God's mercy, expressing the depth of his anguish. He is likely also reflecting on the scriptural truth that God consistently shows compassion to the needy, hastening to assist them especially in their most difficult moments. Thus, David’s profound plight became a means for him to elevate his thoughts to heartfelt intercession.

During the moment of deep suffering, when the faces of the apostles turned away from Christ the Lord, God did not hold back His Son, but gave Him up for all of us (Rom. 8:32).