“When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, ‘Woman, here is your son,’ and to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.” John 19:26-27 NIV
My wife and daughters love to watch Dateline.
Not sure why we love true crime stories, but they like the mystery and the detective work and the questions involving someone’s pursuit of getting away with murder. Personally, I’m a little concerned that they enjoy watching how a wife can slowly poison her husband without a trace.
But in each of these mysteries, everyone is looking for the facts. Some are obvious, some are unnecessary, but some stand out because they are just unique. Something didn’t add up or make sense. Or, in some cases, something just stood out in such a way it was begging to be noticed.
John’s telling of the death of Jesus has one of those.
John gives us all the draws like the other gospel writers. There was a kangaroo court, brutality from the soldiers, jeering onlookers and the most violent execution imaginable.
But John gives us one detail that not only shows his proximity to the crucifixion but his connection to the dying.
“Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.” John 19:25-27 NIV
There it is again, “the disciple Jesus loved.” And how does Jesus treat someone he loves? He trusts them with his most valued treasure – his mother. John is close enough to hear Jesus say “John, please take care of my mom.” And as indicated, Mary will live in John’s home till she dies.
What do you do with the ones you love? You trust them. You trust them with your car or your house key. You trust them to watch your kids or maybe even be your children’s guardians if something happens to you. We trust those we love to those we trust and love.
Jesus has done the same with you.
He has trusted you with his mission and message.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 NIV
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 NIV
Paul will go on to compare the church as the bride of Christ, who has been entrusted to our care.
What do you call someone who is trusted with someone’s prized possessions? You call them loved.
Today’s Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for entrusting me with your mission and message.