FAMILY

 

FAMILY

“Dear woman, here is your son, and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” John 19:26. 27

Among those gathered at the cross watching the crucifixion was Mary, Jesus’ mother. We don’t know how many of His siblings were there, but we know Mary was. By this time Joseph, His father, was probably dead. Jesus looked down from the cross and saw Mary and a disciple who was dear to His heart, John. Instead of focusing on His obvious suffering, Jesus thought of His mother.

Can you imagine the emotional pain she was going through? Jesus was Her son. She had given birth to Him. She had poured her love into Him as He grew up in her home. She knew that many had tried to make life miserable for Him. She knew that many thought He was out of His mJeind for saying the things He did. She knew of His passion for God and had witnessed some of the miracles He had performed. And now, here He was, hanging on a cross, battered, beaten to a pulp, and mocked by most. How her heart must have been grieved.

Jesus looked down at Mary, and felt a deep love for her. He knew that she would need much support and love as things moved forward. He knew that she would need someone to lean on as she dealt with her grief. So, He turned to John and knew that she would be in good hands.

Also, Jesus knew that John would need Mary to lean on as they navigated life without Him in it. Both Mary and John knew that Jesus identified himself as the Messiah, the promised Son of God, the Savior of the world. They would need to figure things out in the days ahead and would be of help to each other.

Family relationships matter to God. He chose to come to earth in a family unit, and when He died, He made sure that Mary was entrusted to a family man. Now, I understand that many families are dysfunctional and leaving is the best option for health of body, mind, and soul. Yet, when a family is stable and supportive, it is important to keep them in your life and not take them for granted. Thank the Lord for them, and strive to provide a good family environment for your children to grow up in.