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.

Jesus’ mother, Mary, and the Apostle John stood close enough to Jesus to be able to speak with Him while He hung on the cross. At least three other women were with Mary, including John’s own mother.  John had run off the night before but now stood with Jesus at the foot of the cross. John was the only one of the twelve to be with Jesus at the cross. Jesus calls upon this “son of thunder” to care for His mother.

In this time of great agony on the cross, Jesus wants the best for His mother! As the firstborn son, it was His responsibility to care for His mother as she aged. Mary had other sons that could care for her, but at this time they were unbelievers. Jesus demonstrates His love for His mother by putting her care in the hands of this loyal and beloved disciple.

Deuteronomy 5:16 Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry