Behold, Your Son

“Woman, behold, your son! … Behold, your mother!” (John 19:26–27, NASB95).

James Tissot:The Death of Jesus

Jesus' fourth statement from the cross was lovingly addressed to His mother, Mary. Directing her attention to John, His disciple, he said,  “Woman, behold, your son!”

At first, it’s difficult to grasp the love in Jesus’ statement. Watching her son hang on a cross, undoubtedly, she agonized uncontrollably, “Oh my son, my son, my son!” As Simeon had prophesied, Mary felt the sword piercing her heart (cf. Luke 2:35). So, when Jesus offered His beloved disciple as a surrogate son, she felt little consolation.

But considered differently, Jesus’ statement marked a shift in His relationship with Mary, even as it showed concern for her ongoing well-being.

Every mother-son relationship shifts as the little boy’s hand she once held grows to grasp manly pursuits. The warmth of physical touch gives way to the pride of a son’s accomplishments. A mother’s heart rejoices when a successful son calls and says, “Mom, guess what I’ve done.”

Mary knew from the start that Jesus was born for a higher purpose. As the angel had told Joseph, “[Mary] will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21, NASB95).

As Jesus addressed Mary from the cross, it’s as if He said, “Mom, look at Me. I’m becoming the Savior of the world. But don’t worry, I’m still your little boy, and I will take care of you.”

In accomplishing great things, too many people forget the importance of relationships. Not Jesus, He lovingly cared for enemies, strangers, and now family, even as He died.