Station 12: Jesus Speaks to His Mother and the Disciple

Painting by: Unknown Artist

In today’s reading, we see the very few who remained with Jesus to the bitter end. Both his mother and his aunt are with him near the foot of the cross. In addition there is Mary Magdalene and a fourth person described as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” 

There is some debate over the name of the “disciple who Jesus loved.” This title is used in multiple instances in the Gospel of John. Some believe him to be Lazarus, who Jesus raised from dead, and who is described as someone that Jesus loved in John 11. It is, however, the general consensus that the disciple who Jesus loved is actually John himself. 

The words that Jesus says to both his mother and the disciple that he loves is the language of adoption. It is an invitation into a family with all of the love and obligation that is required. 

Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, 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 into his home.

John 19: 25-27

These women and the disciple who Jesus loved stood with him in his darkest moment. Jesus gave them and us an invitation to his family. Are you willing to except that invitation this week?

Close your time today with the following prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ help us today to be with those who are in need. Help us to comfort those around us as you comforted those around you. Amen.