John 19:27
Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.
John 19:27
Jesus’ instruction to the beloved disciple, “Behold thy mother!” and the disciple’s response, “took her unto his own home,” completes the pivot from family of origin to family in Christ. John’s Gospel highlights Jesus’ care for Mary even as he is on the cross, and the disciple’s response speaks to the birth of a new Christian community that cares for one another as family. The act of taking Mary into his home becomes a symbol of the church’s mission to provide care for vulnerable members, especially widows and orphans, replicating God’s steadfast love.
This moment embodies the gospel’s social dimension—faith in Christ transforms relationships and creates new bonds within the community. The church becomes a family where love is practical, not merely theoretical, and care for one another reflects the love of Christ.
In practical terms, reflect on whom you would welcome into your household or daily rhythms as a member of your family in Christ. This could be offering hospitality to a single person, inviting someone into your daily routine, or providing support for someone who has lost a parent or caregiver. Let your church community model the inclusion Jesus began on the cross.
Cross-References: Romans 12:9-13; 1 Timothy 5:3-8; Galatians 6:10; Hebrews 13:1-2; 1 Peter 4:9