Christian Reflection and Prayer

Read John 19: 25-27.

TEXT: "Woman, behold, your son!" ... "Behold, your
mother!" (See John 19:26-27.)

The staggering burden of the world's sins crushes
Jesus as He bears the punishment we deserve. Beneath
that overwhelming pain, grief and sorrow, Jesus has every
reason to tune out the bitter enemies who surround Him
and turn within Himself. But instead His eyes scan the
hostile crowd, pleading with His Father to forgive them,
"for they know not what they do." He offers forgiveness
and the promise of Paradise to the repentant criminal at
His side.

Now He scans the crowd again, and His eyes behold two
figures standing before Him in shock and grief. One is His
mother Mary, her heart pierced by the sword of grief and
sorrow (see Luke 2:35). Who will care for her after He has
fulfilled His earthly mission and returned to heaven?

Mary's husband Joseph has died already. If not, he would
have charge of Mary and Jesus would not have the
responsibility of providing someone to care for her after
His death. Jesus could entrust her to one of His four
brothers or His unknown number of sisters (see Matthew
13:55). Several of these will become prominent leaders in
the church, but at this time none of them believe He is the
promised Christ and Savior (see John 7:5).
 
He sees the second figure-the lone disciple of the Twelve to
have the courage to stand at Mary's side under the cross.
Who better to entrust with His mother's keeping than His
closest, most loyal disciple John? And from this very hour
John lovingly takes her into his own house and faithfully
provides for her the rest of her life.

THE PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, in the midst of Your bitter suffering and
agonizing death You loved Your mother enough to provide
John to care for her. Move us in joyful thanksgiving for Your
salvation to love and care for one another. Amen.

(Lenten Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries)