Today is Good Friday, the day that Jesus was crucified. In the midst of dying one of the most painful deaths known to mankind, what amazes me is how much Jesus thought of others during His greatest time of need.
For example when he forgave those who put Him to death, He said, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” Also His response to the thief, “Today, you will be with Me in paradise.” But the one, I want to focus on today is found in John 19.
25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” 27 Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!” And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home.
Joseph is dead and Mary has been Jesus’ responsibility to take care of since He was the oldest. Now, Jesus will no longer be able to provide for Mary. But I am sure Mary is not thinking about that right now. She is suffering watching her son die.
But Jesus sees her and doesn’t think of Himself but thinks of her and He wants to make sure she is cared for. He sees John, His closest disciple, and establishes a new relationship between Mary and John. Jesus gives the responsibility to care for Mary to His disciple, John.
John does not object, even though this would come with a financial burden and it would obligate his family to care for Mary. John accepted the ministry he was given. It was said in church history that John welcomed Mary in his home for 11 years until her death.
Here is my question: If I was standing at the cross that day, could God trust me to carry out whatever task He gave me? Would I remain faithful?
I know that is ironic because it is at the cross where we find forgiveness for being unfaithful. That is so true. If you have been unfaithful, forgiveness is being offered to you today. But it where we find faithfulness to our call as well.
So let me ask you again, will you be faithful to Christ?
Let us pray!
Blessings,
Pastor Lee & Gidget Athey