Part 2 of 4As we have recently seen, the few phrases uttered from the Cross reveal the excellencies of the One who suffered there, and inform us of the purpose, the meaning, the sufferings, and the sufficiency of the death divine. These few uttered phrases give us a glimpse into the focus and zeal of the heart of God. Only the most vital and important truths would be uttered at such a distressing time, when speech was a torment.
Today, I want to look at another phrase that our Lord spoke while He was accomplishing His life's goal, that is, the redemption of mankind: In John 19:25-27, Scripture says "Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, 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."
To the casual reader, these verses may appear insignificant. However, the events surrounding these words of our Lord speak volumes of mercy for those who are seeking: "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart" (Jer 29:13).
Volumes of mercy? How so? Let us find out...
First, we must understand the circumstances involved with Jesus' words.. Perhaps the worst part of these instances surrounding the crucifixion (except the actual crucifixion itself) was the fact that ALL of Jesus' friends and disciples "forsook Him, and fled" (Matt 25:56). As one has said, "Their failure to watch with Him for one hour in the garden well paralyzes our minds, but their turning away from Him at the time of His arrest almost baffles comprehension!" Peter was verbal about his refusal to flee, but he fails. And not only Peter, but ALL the others too: "Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said ALL the disciples" (Matt 26:35). Nevertheless, His disciples failed, and were found no where near Him: "Then saith Jesus unto them, ALL ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad" (Matt 26:31). This word "all" includes even John, the disciple whom Jesus loved. Even John was no where to be found during the greatest testing of Jesus' life. He was "offended" at the Lord of hosts (Matt 26:31)! What bitter dregs for our Lord to swallow! His closest friends were ashamed to be found in His company! Yet how wonderful that He would not accuse His followers of the neglect they were guilty of. Even though Caiphas questioned Him about their whereabouts: "The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples" (Jn 18:19).. yet Jesus answered him not a word! He wouldn't accuse His people to their common enemy, even when they deserved it.
It would be easy to judge the disciples for their blatant failure. However, before we begin to condemn them, let us diligently consider our own feeble faith, and our own weaknesses in the hours of testing. Friend, if it wasn't for the precious grace of God, even the most diminutive affliction is sufficient to overturn us. Interestingly, at the coming of the Holy Spirit, these same disciples seemed to forsake Him no further. Does that leave us, those who possess His Spirit, without excuse? Let the restraining and upholding power of God be withdrawn from us, and how long would we stand?
Nonetheless, these words of our Lord (Jn 19:25-27) are a picturesque display of the great mercies that continually inhabit and flow from His Person! Though John readily forsook Jesus just hours before, he now is found at the foot of His cross, receiving a wondrous commission: "Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother" (19:27). What would be grounds for refusal for any lesser "lord", was swallowed up by Him whose very name is "merciful" (Exod 34:6)! There were no rebukes, no condemnation, no harsh words whatsoever. The fact that John returned to Jesus' bloody cross was evidence enough that He was repentant. And this solitary act was sufficient, from our Lord's perspective, to restore John back to a rightful standing, and worthy of a divine commission, even to care for and look after the very mother of God!
Perhaps there is one reading who has likewise wandered from the side and communion of his Savior? Perhaps in the hour of trial you denied Him too? Well, why waste any more time? If Jesus could accept and commission a failing (yet repentant) John at the most difficult time of His life, how much more can He accept you into fellowship, now being set at the right hand of God, full of gracious intercession! Allow that merciful display to melt your heart today.
Again, how beautiful that such a merciful discourse was one of only a few emotions communicated from the cross - that awful place of torment and shame! Beloved, He's waiting.. There is not pit too deep!
No comments:
Post a Comment