Jesus, Mary, and John

Jesus committed his mother's care to his apostle John. It was a wise provision of spiritual sympathy as well as practical help, and is like his gift of the Holy Spirit and the mutual benefits of Christian kindness. Mary seems to have suffered in silence at the cross. It reminds us of our amazement that Christ would die for us; and that service to Christ is sometimes no more than identifying with him. In all this Jesus was acting in his official capacity as the Christ. He was interpreting God's Law - regard for parents is right and it pleases him. There is a perfect blend of law and love. It shows he has resources to give us when we struggle. And he was our substitute, working out a righteousness for us. When we remember our failures to love or to keep any part of God's Law, remember - we are complete in him.