How can we emulate the faithfulness shown by the women in John 19:25? Setting the Scene • “Near the cross of Jesus stood His mother and her sister, as well as Mary the wife of Clopas and Mary Magdalene.” (John 19:25) • While most disciples fled (Matthew 26:56), these women remained, embodying unwavering devotion at the darkest hour. What Their Faithfulness Looked Like • Presence in pain – they “stood” (Greek: histēmi): an intentional, steady stance beside the crucified Lord. • Costly courage – Roman execution sites were perilous; public identification with Jesus risked ridicule and punishment (John 15:20). • Persistent service – they had “followed Him and ministered to Him” all the way from Galilee (Mark 15:40-41). • Silent testimony – no recorded words, yet their nearness proclaimed allegiance stronger than speech (1 Peter 3:1-2). Why Their Example Matters • Faithful love fulfills Jesus’ call: “Whoever does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.” (Matthew 10:38) • Loyalty in suffering mirrors God’s covenant faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-23). • Their steadfastness positioned them to witness the resurrection first (John 20:1-18), showing that faithfulness at the cross precedes joy at the empty tomb. Practical Ways to Emulate Their Faithfulness Today • Stay close to Christ in hardship – Daily Word and prayer even when circumstances press (Psalm 119:92). – Public identification with Jesus at work, school, online (Romans 1:16). • Stand with God’s people when they suffer – Visit, support, and advocate for persecuted believers (Hebrews 13:3). – Offer tangible care to the hurting—meals, childcare, finances (Galatians 6:2). • Serve without spotlight – Engage in unseen ministries: cleaning, intercession, letters of encouragement (Matthew 6:4). – Accept obscurity, knowing “your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6) • Persevere to the end – Fix eyes on “Jesus… who for the joy set before Him endured the cross.” (Hebrews 12:2) – Hold fast when others fall away (2 Timothy 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 16:13). Promises for Those Who Remain Near the Cross • Crown of life for enduring trial (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10). • Assurance of Christ’s presence: “I am with you always.” (Matthew 28:20) • Future honor from the Lord: “If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.” (John 12:26). Encouragement to Continue • Your quiet faithfulness is noticed by heaven (Malachi 3:16). • What begins with standing at the cross ends with standing before the throne (Revelation 7:9-17). |
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