“When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.” – John 19:26-27 (ESV)
How many people were standing around observing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the two criminals? Some were mocking, others overwhelmed with grief. From Matthew and Mark, we know there was a good number. John was the only disciple whose presence was noted. Jesus’ mother was there with John and other women who loved and followed Jesus to the cross. In midst great pain and suffering, Jesus felt Mary’s sorrow. He honored His mother by acknowledging and entrusting her into the care of John, “The disciple who He loved,” was the way John always identified himself in the Gospel he wrote.. Jesus, as first-born of the family, did not give the responsibility of caring for His mother to His half-brothers because they were not sympathetic to His ministry nor did they yet believe in Him. In stark contrast with the cruelty and indifference of the soldiers, this group of women watched with heart-broken love and grief. The promise we find in today’s verse was one given to Mary many years before. The anguish of Jesus’ mother fulfilled the prophecy of Simeon: “A sword will pierce your own soul too.” It was a promise of Jesus’ mission. (Luke 2:35). .
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Esengo Mingi 