“…He said to His mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then He said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.” – John 19:26, 27 

Scripture Reading: John 19:17-27

About 33 years earlier, Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the temple. While there, Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God for letting him see God’s salvation. While Joseph and Mary marvelled at all this, Simeon blessed them also and prophesied about what Christ would do. As he spoke, he turned to Mary and said, “And a sword will pierce through your own soul also” (See Luke 2:22-35).

That sword thrust came as she watched her Son hanging, nailed to the cross.

But Jesus, loving her in spite of His agony, cared for His earthly mother. Many may wonder why He addressed her as “woman” thinking it sounds rather cold and heartless. But Jesus is actually telling her that she must see Him not simply as her Son, but as her Saviour and Lord. At the same time, as a faithful Son, He appointed John to take her in and care for her. From that point on, John would be her guardian, provider and protector.

Jesus’ third word on the cross is a word of love and affection. But while this particular word is directed toward Mary and John, it is that very same love and affection for you and me that compelled Him to give His life. Christ, by taking our sins upon Himself, provided us with our greatest need – forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Oh, what love! Oh, what joy!

Suggestions for prayer

Give thanks that God has provided your needs, both materially as well as spiritually.

Rev. Derrick Vander Meulen was born and raised in California and has been an ordained minister of the Gospel for 35 years. He served as the pastor to two URCNA churches in Michigan, then planted a URC on the island of Kauai, Hawaii and is now serving as pastor of Coram Deo United Reformed Church in Centennial, Colorado. He is also the General Co-editor of the Trinity Psalter Hymnal, a joint publication of the United Reformed Churches and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.