This is your Mother

Gospel

John 19:25-34

'Behold your son. Behold your mother.'

Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. Seeing his mother and the disciple he loved standing near her, Jesus said to his mother, ‘Woman, this is your son.’ Then to the disciple he said, ‘This is your mother.’ And from that moment the disciple made a place for her in his home.

    After this, Jesus knew that everything had now been completed, and to fulfil the scripture perfectly he said, ‘I am thirsty.’

    A jar full of vinegar stood there, so putting a sponge soaked in the vinegar on a hyssop stick they held it up to his mouth. After Jesus had taken the vinegar he said, ‘It is accomplished’; and bowing his head he gave up his spirit. 

    It was Preparation Day, and to prevent the bodies remaining on the cross during the sabbath – since that sabbath was a day of special solemnity – the Jews asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken away. Consequently the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with him and then of the other. When they came to Jesus, they found he was already dead, and so instead of breaking his legs one of the soldiers pierced his side with a lance; and immediately there came out blood and water.

**Reflection:**

In the scene at the cross, Jesus entrusts his mother to the beloved disciple, demonstrating the importance of caring for one another in times of suffering. His words, “Behold your son,” and “Behold your mother,” remind us of the profound bonds of love and compassion that Jesus calls us to foster within our communities and families. Even in his agony, Jesus shows concern for others, ensuring his mother is cared for after his death. The moment when Jesus declares, “It is accomplished,” marks the fulfillment of God's plan for salvation. The piercing of his side and the subsequent blood and water symbolize the fullness of life and the cleansing power of his sacrifice. As we reflect on this, we are invited to consider how we can embody Christ’s love and care for others, especially in their moments of need. 

**Question for reflection:**  

How am I called to imitate Christ’s compassion and care for others in my daily life?

**Short prayer:**

Heavenly Father,  

Thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus, who showed us the depth of your love through his sacrifice. Help us to follow his example of compassion and care, especially for those who are suffering or in need. May we be willing to share in Christ’s mission of love, bringing comfort and hope to others. Strengthen us to be faithful disciples, trusting in your plan of salvation and your everlasting love.  

Amen.