By: Rev. J. Loren Russell
John 19:25-27 KJV
Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.
You generally hear this scripture read around Resurrection Sunday, particularly at a “Seven Last Words Service” (you should attend one if you have never been). But I cannot think of a more appropriate time to look at this text than on Mother’s Day.
From the text we see Jesus hanging on a cross. It was splintered and it was rough. He was made to carry it up a dusty road after having been beaten and whipped all night long. By this time, he had been beaten so badly he was unrecognizable. All His “loyal” disciples had already abandoned Him. Peter had denied Him three times and cursed when someone identified him as being one of Jesus’ followers. The only disciple who was there at the cross with the women was John.
As Jesus looked at His mother and the one disciple who stood with Him, fully aware that He was dying, He knew it was the responsibility of the eldest son to take care of His mother if the father was dead. Joseph, Jesus’ earthly father had died. But now, He Himself was dying on a cross. I can just hear Jesus as he looks at his mother; “This is my mama! She’s got to eat, have a place to stay, clothes on her back and shoes on her feet.
I love my Mama! She took care of me when I couldn’t take care of myself, I have to take care of her.” And there was John! The disciple whom He loved. A businessman with resources, and great loyalty. He looks at His beloved disciple and says to his Mama, “Dear woman, here is your son. And he said to this disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ And from then on this disciple took her into his home” (NLT)
Because He loved His Mama, He committed her well-being and upkeep to His beloved disciple! Jesus loved his mother and gave her an insurance policy from the “John the Disciple Insurance Company.” He was not so heavenly minded that He was no earthly good!
As I wish all mothers a blessed and Happy Mother’s Day, let me encourage everyone, particularly during this COVID 19 pandemic, to please, take care of your earthly responsibilities. Those you love are depending on you.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and God bless you!
Rev. J. Loren Russell is President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial Strategy & Consulting; an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx; creator & host of “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM on Facebook LIVE and author of Matters of Faith: The Book. eBook available at www.smashwords.com/books/view/993177
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