When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Behold your son!” Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!” and from that hour the disciple took her to his own home. John 19:26-27 ESV
When we read the stories of Jesus calling His disciples, it becomes clear early on that He had a special job for three of them: Peter, James, and John. Though Peter’s brother Andrew followed Jesus first and was the one who told Peter about Him, it was Peter who was called to be the leader, and despite denying Christ at His trial, Peter was the same boldly preached to thousands on Pentecost. At first, thousands became Christians, but then a few months later, the second in that inner circle, James was put to death for his faith. But what about John? If Peter were to lead, and James to be martyred, what did Jesus ask John to do? Jesus called Him take care of His mother.
While Peter was out preaching, and later on Paul became the greatest evangelist of all time, John stayed home, and there accomplished two things: He wrote about Jesus and He took care of Mary. Maybe there were days when John wondered why he couldn’t have a more exciting ministry. Why couldn’t he go on a mission trip, schedule a speaking tour, or organize the growing church? In fact, after the first few chapters of the book of Acts, John disappears from our view entirely. It wasn’t that he wasn’t as smart, couldn’t speak well or know how to lead. The central issue of John’s life was that He was asked by Jesus to take care of someone most precious to Jesus: His mom!
In memory-care ministry, we are not asked to speak to large crowds, to oversee the construction of a new church or to travel overseas. Instead, Jesus calls us to enter a world that others hope to avoid, and many would like to forget. So, on days when you wonder if you are making any difference, you feel exhausted, or confused, just remember John. When we read through the New Testament, we don’t find a single word that John said, and yet he was called the disciple whom Jesus loved. You are likewise loved by Jesus, and He will fill you with His love for others as you continue to trust Him and just take care of mom!
Thanks, Pastor Pete, for sharing that we serve where we’re called.
Thanks Grant. Being excited about our calling whether great or small is one sure way to know who it comes from. God bless.
Excitement feels like a kid in a candy store with a $20 bill burning a hole in his pocket. Can’t wait to share the best of what God has in store for those who love Him.
Interesting thoughts on John’s life. Thank you.
You are welcome. Thanks for reading and joining the conversation.
Pastor Pete, I found this post a unique look at John’s special responsibility and privilege. May we remember that God does not see as man sees. May we never grow weary of doing good that mankind might see our good works and glorify God. Blessings to you and yours.
Amen, thanks for your encouraging words. Have a blessed week.
You as well, Pastor!
This really resonated with me. We often overlook the quiet, daily work of caregiving in favor of the bigger, more public roles. When Jesus told John to take her to his own home, He was entrusting him with a heavy, daily responsibility.
Caregiving is beautiful, but it is physically demanding. Helping someone get up or bending over can really wear down your lower back and knees. I have found that doing a few gentle pelvic tilts while standing at the kitchen sink can help release that lower back tension. John might have wondered about a more exciting ministry, but his quiet service was vital.
Thanks for offering real practical insights about being a caregiver. I believe we will all be surprised at how small acts of service will be blessed in eternity.