“(Jesus said) to his mother, ‘Dear woman, here is your son,’ and to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ From that time on, this disciple took her into his home” John19:26, 27.
Haven’t we all wondered what it must have been like for Mary to raise a sinless child?
“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” Luke 2:19.
“And a sword will pierce your own soul too” Luke 2:35b.
“(Jesus said) to his mother, ‘Dear woman, here is your son,’ and to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ From that time on, this disciple took her into his home” John19:26, 27.
We have had a houseful this Christmas – joyful and fun and chaotic as we hosted the grandkids, all eight and under. So much love and laughter, but also some squabbles and tears. They are all wonderful, but they are all sinners – just like their parents – and just like me!
Haven’t we all wondered what it must have been like for Mary to raise a sinless child? The details of conception and birth for Jesus was an ordeal in itself, with angels involved and traveling at nine months pregnant and a fiancé who needed to be convinced, but that was only the beginning of life with this amazing person. We get a little window into this relationship in John 2 where Mary wants Jesus to fix an embarrassing problem at a wedding. Jesus said to her: “Dear woman, why do you involve me? My time has not yet come.” Her reply was to the servants when she said, “do whatever he tells you.” This was a loving, but complex relationship. And most certainly Simeon’s prediction of a sword piercing her heart had its climax at the foot of the cross. But then she saw her son resurrected from the dead and she was also in the upper room at Pentecost to participate in the coming of the Spirit. What a life! What a relationship!
As we consider encounters with the Lord in 2023, aren’t we in a somewhat similar boat as Mary? To be in this world but not of it? To live a holy life but with a sin nature to deal with? To be a citizen of Canada but also a citizen of God’s kingdom? It requires us to walk closely with the Lord – as Mary did. Won’t it be something to talk with her about this someday!
I’ve included a rendition of a song that we have heard for years now, but as you listen, join hands with Mary as we relate to Jesus, the Promised One!
Just a note for all of you who have read through the bible in 2022 – we will be reading it together publicly this Sunday morning – so be ready for that!
For all potential pilgrims to Israel – it’s time to get serious now as funds must be in by the end of February. We are halfway subscribed and need another dozen people – is that you?
Finally, I want to wish you a Happy New Year! May this be a memorable year for you spiritually – of growth and depth in your Christian experience!
Pastor Leon Throness
