What can we learn from the women's presence at the cross in John 19:25? Setting the Scene “Now beside the cross of Jesus stood His mother, His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.” (John 19:25) These four women remained when almost everyone else had scattered. In their quiet, unflinching loyalty we find living lessons for every generation of believers. Who Were These Women? • Mary, the mother of Jesus – bearing a sword-pierced soul (Luke 2:35) yet standing firm. • Mary’s sister (likely Salome, compare Mark 15:40) – wife of Zebedee, mother of James and John. • Mary, wife of Clopas – part of the wider family circle (Luke 24:18). • Mary Magdalene – delivered from seven demons (Luke 8:2) and never far from her Savior again. Lessons in Faithful Presence • Steadfast love remains when circumstances turn darkest. These women stayed “beside the cross,” not at a safe distance. • Proximity matters. Being near Jesus in suffering positioned them to be first witnesses of His resurrection (John 20:1 ff.). • True devotion is quietly practical; someone had to claim the body, prepare spices (Luke 23:55-56). They were already there, ready to serve. Courage in the Face of Danger • Public association with a condemned man risked their own safety (John 19:38-39). Their presence declared, “We are with Him,” whatever the cost. • Their courage fulfilled Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” • Contrast: the disciples fled (Mark 14:50). God highlights the bravery of these women, teaching that spiritual valor is not reserved for the prominent. Model of Discipleship • Discipleship is more than listening to sermons; it is standing with Christ when the world despises Him (Hebrews 13:13). • They show holistic devotion—heart, feet, and hands involved. • Their faith operated in the tension of grief and hope, echoing Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted.” Ministry of Presence Today • We may not always “fix” suffering, but we can stand near. Romans 12:15: “Weep with those who weep.” • Showing up at hospital rooms, funerals, or lonely tables incarnates the love of Christ. • Faithfulness in small, unseen places prepares us for larger kingdom purposes, just as these women were entrusted with the first resurrection message. Encouragement for Our Walk • God sees unnoticed faithfulness; He recorded these names for all time. • The cross is not only where Jesus died; it is where steadfast love triumphed. • Stay close to Christ in Scripture, prayer, and fellowship. When trials come, familiarity with His presence will keep you standing. |
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