Sermon nuggets Fri Dec 5
Theme- Crucifixion
Verses- John 19:25-27 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.
The Relationships points to Christ’s Selfless Love
Love makes one think of others in the midst of all suffering. Jesus sees around and sees those faithful few with whom he has close relationships-mostly women, although John is there again. All haven’t left him. It was the women who demonstrated unbelievable courage in spite of the danger. They followed to the end. Although the women couldn’t do anything to save him, they understood that they could be there and show support for him in his own agony. All the other disciples and followers were gone.
As Jesus looked upon them, note the selflessness of his love-He is not the least bit concerned about Himself, but others. He was concerned about the sinner one on the cross next to him who was repentant, and for the sinners before Him who didn’t know what they were doing. But his special love was directed toward John and His mother, Mary. “Woman, behold your son”. He wants His mother to be taken care of. John is to be like a son to Her, and Mary is to be like a mother to him.
As the eldest earthly son, Jesus cares for the needs of His mother Mary by providing for her in her grief and in her physical need by making sure the disciples would best care for her. He would see her anguish and realize her love that I believe even extended beyond motherhood. Simeon words came true “This child is destined to cause the falling and the rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be spoke against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul also.” Jesus knew her sorrows.
Mary was never divine. She was not portrayed as one to be prayed to nor worshipped. She needed to be cared for herself. John was to provide the care. She needed protection. She is the earthly mother, not a heavenly mediator.
The question may come why didn’t Mary turn to one of her other sons mentioned in the Bible? The New Testament is clear that Jesus had brothers. Why didn’t one of them take over their responsibility? I suspect that it is because they were not believers at this time. We are glad to say in the book of Acts there is indication that they too became followers with their hearts of Jesus, but for the present, for the time of grief and for the physical are Mary is watched over by John. And John became one of the family.
There was a news article some time ago of a Father who was aware of his house on fire in California who had 90% burns on his body to save his wife and kids. Beating the door and watched his family burn he went into rescue them and ended up with scars himself, though they were saved. Here is one with scarred hands and feet also who for our love did complete the job for our salvation.
The sign of Pilate points to his sovereign Love. The King of the Jews. In a detailed prophecy His robe may point to his sacrificial love. These relationships point to His selfless love.
Peter said it well. “Cast all your cares upon Him for He cares for you.”
Pastor Dale
