“And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:34-35).
When Mary conceived by The Holy Ghost, she became obedient unto God for the promised Messiah to come – through her. She showed undaunted courage for the huge task of bringing up the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Even though she had Jesus’ adopted father, Joseph, to help her, she knew that the weight of responsibility would be awesome for this Holy Child.
Jesus shows the deepest respect for His mother at the time of crucifixion. Can you imagine the deep anguish Mary felt on that day? This is the most unbearable piercing she would receive as a mother, to date.
“Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sisters, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. 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” (John 19:25-28).
Jesus’ responsibility for His mother was passed on to a new son, named John. Not only had Jesus honored her, but He entrusted the care of Mary to a friend and her to a new son.
I am sure Mary was aware of Jesus’ prediction that He would rise again, but everyone close to Him still did not understand that He must die (a horrible death) first before He would be resurrected. The love for Jesus by His family, disciples and friends overshadowed any comfort they might receive from His prophecy that He would return in three days. Jesus’ terrible agony pierced His mother’s heart like no other.
Jesus’ actions of making sure His mother was cared for showed that mothers are exceptional people to be kept in high regard and reverence.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for mothers and their constant attempts to bring the best to their children. May we honor them every day. Amen.
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