In these final lessons, we are considering the last words of Jesus that He spoke while on the cross. These words are so precious to us who believe because we have been changed forever through the love of Jesus. Our Lord spoke these words while He hung in agony, atoning for our sins. So far, we have considered Jesus’ prophecy fulfilling prayer for the forgiveness of His enemies and His message of life and hope to the repentant robber who asked to be remembered. Now, we draw in closer to hear the words of love and care that Jesus spoke to His mother and the significance they hold for us.
“When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, 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
Question 1. According to John 19:26-27, what was on Jesus’ heart and mind at this time as He hung dying on the cross?
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John 19:26-27 could be summed up with the words love and care. Jesus saw His mother and John "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 20:2) and spoke directly to them in love. And considering that Jesus was nailed to a cross suffering in every way possible, His thoughtfulness is even more profound. Jesus was actively bleeding, hanging by nails, naked, swollen beyond recognition, thorns piercing his scalp, and through all this, He looks and sees His mother and John, and then summons the strength to speak to them. Can you fathom it? In the throes of death, Jesus honors His mother and cares for her perfectly.
Indeed, every fiber of Jesus' being was always concerned for others, not for Himself. Especially in death, His mind and heart were intent on loving and caring for others. Jesus saw His mother - her hurt and pain - and He had compassion for her and arranged for her care through John. This loving act was beautiful, but how much more the eternal act of mercy, love, and care Jesus arranged for all who believe.
From His cross, Jesus saw you and me too, and through His death, He arranged for both our temporary and eternal needs. But His love and attention for us did not stop at the cross; Jesus continues to see us and care for us.
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16
Question 2. According to Hebrews 4:15, what does Jesus feel regarding our weaknesses?
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Question 3. How does Hebrews 4:16 compare with what Jesus did for John and Mary while He was on the cross?
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