August 16, 2017: SOAP #2813: Jeremiah 23, 25; John 19

Scripture:  John (NIV) 19:25 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.  26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” 27 and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.

Observation:   Duty demanded the Roman soldiers be around the cross, but it was love that drew and held these ladies and John “near the cross.”  Many were probably present at a distance to watch the crucifixion, but these were close enough for Jesus to draw strength and comfort from their presence.  They were not behind the cross, but in front where Jesus could see them.  They were close enough to be identified as friends of the one dying as a criminal on the cross.  They were close enough for Jesus to speak to them.

Application:  With Fanny Crosby I sing:  I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice, And it told Thy love to me; But I long to rise in the arms of faith And be closer drawn to Thee.
Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord, To the cross where Thou hast died; Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer blessed Lord, To Thy precious, bleeding side.
Oh, the pure delight of a single hour That before Thy throne I spend,
When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God I commune as friend with friend!

Prayer:  Lord I want to be close enough to the cross for you to speak to me!  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!