Today’s scripture: John 19:25-27; Psalm 22:9-11 (NASB)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Tammy Mills):
My girls will often bring me something they are playing with and ask me to “Save it for them.” At first I wondered what they meant and what was going on. It turns out that “saving Barbie” means you hold on to it while the girl goes to the potty or elsewhere, and then when she returns she gets Barbie back — all safe and sound — from you. If someone isn’t saving your Barbie for you, your sister just might take it!
Essentially they are saying, “Mom, behold my Barbie. Care for her and hold on to her like she was you own until I get back.”
Today we see a more touching and meaningful example of “beholding.” Jesus says to John, save my mother, or behold my mother. And to his mother he says, “Behold your son.” This is one of my favorite scenes in the Bible. To me, it speaks volumes about the humanity of Jesus. Jesus uses his last breaths to take care of his mom and the disciple he loved. What a real and touching moment! It blows my mind to think about how much Jesus cared for his family and friends on earth.
I try to take in the fact that Jesus loves me the same way. To help me take in Jesus’ love for me, I have always imagined that when Jesus went back to heaven he looked at God and said much the same thing, “Behold, my Tammy… or behold my David… or behold (fill in your name).” How amazing is it to have Jesus say, “Behold….”
Thought for the day: Today try to imagine Jesus, standing before God, saying, “Behold my son or daughter ______”, and include your name.
Today, let’s join together in prayer for: Those we know who are facing physical challenges, including Ray, Caroline, Barb, and Erik.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. Use the item above as a starting point, or consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.