“Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary, the wife of the Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple (John) whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, ‘Dear woman, here is your son,’ and to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.”
John 19: 25-27
To Love Like Jesus I Must…
I must care for my own family.
By paying attention
“Honor your father and mother.” Exodus 20:12
By meeting practical needs
“Show respect for widows who really are all alone. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they should learn first to carry out their religious duties toward their own family and in this way repay their parents and grandparents, because that is what pleases god.” 1 Timothy 5: 3-5
“If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” 1 Timothy 5: 8
By giving emotional support
“Friends love through all kinds of weather, and families stick together in all kinds of trouble.” Proverbs 17:17
I must treat other believers as family.
“Do not rebuke an older man (in the church), but appeal to him as your father. Treat the younger men as your brothers, treat the older women as mothers, and treat the younger women as sisters, with all purity.” 1 Timothy 5: 1-2
“Be devoted to each other like a loving family. Excel in showing respect for each other.”
Romans 12: 10
Whenever we have the opportunity to help anyone, we should do it. But we should give special attention to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6: 10
“Share each other’s trouble and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” Galatians 6: 2
Learn to see other’s pain even when I’m in pain.
“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” Phil. 2:5
“Since Christ suffered and underwent pain, you must have the same attitude he did; you must be ready to suffer, too. For remember, when your body suffers, sin loses its power.”1 Peter 4:1
I must meet other’s needs even if mine aren’t met.
“Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, ‘How can I help?’” Romans 15:2-3
“When God’s children are in need, be the one to help them out. Get into the habit of inviting guest home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night.” Romans 12: 13
When Grieving…
Remember that Jesus cares about your pain
Accept love from others
Look for someone else to help
God’s answer is always at the foot of the cross!
