Jesus’ Care for His Mother

John 19:26-27 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.

Mary sorrowfully stood before the cross watching her son die. Simeon had said to Mary over thirty years prior, Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also. Mary probably had not expected what was happening. Her son Jesus had been rejected by the nation and was being crucified – a most horrible way to die. She loved her son with a mother’s love, but she was helpless to do anything.

Mary did not go to the cross alone, though I am certain no one would have been able to keep her away. The disciple John, a relative named Mary, and Mary Magdalene accompanied her to the cross. The other two Mary’s stood further off watching. Mary and John stood close enough to be able to speak with Jesus.

John refers to himself in the Gospel of John as the disciple whom Jesus loved. This knowledge caused John to love Jesus even more. Though he had fled the previous night in the garden, he came back; and he was the only one of the disciples to stand at the cross.

Jesus especially cared about His mother and what would happen to her. It is inferred that Joseph has died. Mary was probably dependent upon her sons to take care of her. Even while Jesus was travelling around Israel, he certainly took on the responsibility to do his part in taking care of His mother. His brothers were still unbelievers. He did not want his mother to return to the home of those who had rejected Him, so he connects her with John. Jesus knows the heart of this “son of thunder.” He knew that John was the right person to take care of her. They would become mutual blessings to each other. I am sure that John was able to hear many stories of Jesus’ earlier life that were a blessing to him, but not recorded in the Gospels.

Jesus has this same care for us. Hebrews 4:15-16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.