We have learned that while on the cross our Lord
Jesus was not a victim but a victor. His care for His mother exhibits
this. He demonstrates that He is the Son of God and son of man by
speaking to both His Heavenly Father and earthly mother. He also
demonstrates that He is the PERFECT sacrifice for our sins by His obedience to
God's law. In providing a home for Mary He is fulfilling the 4th
commandment to honor our parents. Not even the exhausting and violent
suffering He has experienced keep Him from compassionate care for His mother as
well as others!
Standing at her son's cross, Mary is
experiencing a prediction made to her when Jesus was a newborn. A godly
saint, Simeon, had told her, "And a sword will pierce your own soul
too." The respected commentator, Matthew Henry, poignantly describes
her suffering when Jesus is on the cross..."His torments were her
tortures; she was upon the rack while he was upon the cross; and her heart bled
with his wounds."
When we study the Scriptures sometimes it is
hard for us to fully grasp the relationship between the Son of God and His
earthly mother but their connection and interaction at the cross is the
ultimate in motherhood and family love. Sometimes our own family
relationships have complexities, highs, and lows, but may the precious example
of our Savior and His mother inspire and instruct us!
See you Sunday!
1. Why do you think Jesus called Mary
"Woman" instead of Mother during His days of ministry? John
2:4; 19:26
2. I believe the "son" that Mary
is committed to by Jesus for care is the Apostle John. John 19:26;
21:20.24. Why do you think John received that privilege? Study John 19:25;
Mark 1:20; Matthew 27:55; and John 7:5. Why do you suppose Mary's husband,
Joseph, is not mentioned regarding her future care?
3. Along with His interesting name for His
mother what else is unique about their relationship? Mark 3:31-34; Luke
11:27, 28
4. In the upper room prayer meeting of
Acts 1 does the context suggest they were praying to Mary or with Mary? Acts
1:13, 14
5. Since Jesus would no longer be
physically present to care for His mother He has John do it. What might
that suggest about us as the representatives of Christ in the here and now?
6. Study this powerful passage on the
importance God places on caring for our family members. I Timothy 5:4, 7,
8
7. In this 3rd statement from the cross
our Lord demonstrates His victorious compassion even under great suffering and
pain. How do we treat our loved ones when we are having a "bad
day"? By the way, how many of
the 7 statements from the cross can you remember?
8. Take time to reflect on the blessings
and challenges of motherhood. If you have the opportunity, be sure to
express your love and gratitude to the one(s) who have mothered you!
