I form a mental picture of Mary’s pain as she watched the agony of her Son’s death. When I read of His crucifixion in any of the Four Gospels, chills race up and down my spine. I cannot imagine or fathom how her heart ached, especially knowing His innocence of the crimes which brought His death on the cross.
I have read the facts of His death many times. I have read this was exactly how His life was destined to end. I’ve read His purpose was to be the perfect, final sacrifice for all who believe He is the Savior, who died and rose again, so believers could be freed from their sin. I sense His bravery and trust in His Father who sent Him.
In John 19:25b, I’ve read, “But standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, and His mother’s sister.”
I’m sure even His aunt experienced aches and pains as she watched this despicable and contemptible death of her loved one. I ponder how she suffered, alongside her sister, when I read about the death of her beloved nephew taken early in life. Did she and Mary know or understand this baby was sent to earth to die the death he died? Even if they did understand, there still was pain. Their tears were as bitter as the vinegar He was given to drink while hanging on the cross.
For more than fifty years, I’ve read the Holy pages. I feel I just now see, really see, the message that’s been there all along. I’ve come to know, it is a lifelong journey as I try to comprehend His marvelous story.
I read His marvelous story. I read how He left His glory. I read why He left His glory and came to earth to save those who accept Him into their hearts. I’m glad reading makes me see the more I read, the more I know it is Him I need. I hope His pain and His families’ pain was not in vain. I read He loves me and wants me to be happy. I read He loves you and wants you to be happy.
Reading about this perfect man who died as one cursed in excruciating pain and humiliation; He died to spare us eternal punishment. Satisfaction comes from reading of His love and knowing I’ll join Him someday and see Him as He is. Reading gives me hope and peace.
© 2007 Carol Dee Meeks