“Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas and Mary Magdalene” (John 19:20).
When you think of everything that happened at the Cross, can you even imagine the anguish Mary felt? To stand by and watch the son she loved and nurtured be treated so cruelly brought her great pain. The added agony was there was nothing she could do about it. Contrary to some teachings, Mary had no part in the atoning work of Christ. He died alone on a rugged cross, shedding His blood for the sins of mankind.
During His ministry Mary had to show her love from a distance. Being close by when He suffered on the Cross was the very last thing she could do to show her support. Did she understand what was really happening? She was as confused as anyone else standing around her. Tomorrow we will learn about Simeon’s earlier prophecy. Mary may not have understood his words back when he held her baby and blessed Him, but they would take on new meaning as she wept there at the Cross.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Virginia Women Active for Christ will hold their state meeting/retreat this weekend. Pray for unity of purpose and spiritual growth among women.
