They were there. John 19:17-27 Isaiah 53 provides the most accurate prophetic description of everything that happened when Christ died. Eyewitness accounts describe miracles at His death: supernatural darkness, two major earthquakes—one at His death and one at His resurrection—and the tearing in half of a very heavy, thick curtain from top to bottom. His death occurred precisely when the last prophecy was fulfilled. These events, among many others, focus our attention on the “Sin-Bearer.”
Women from Galilee were at the cross where the Savior hung; others watched from a distance. His mother wanted to be near her Son to hear what He had to say. Other women who knew Him from early life and had followed Him wherever He went understood the pain that would strike His inner self as His body, soul, and spirit were burdened by sins’ heavy load. He had told them before what would happen to Him, how He would suffer, bleed, and die. They had heard the words, but now, it was happening exactly as He had said. Yet, they wouldn’t leave Him; they knew who He was, had heard what He said, seen what He did, and believed in Him. The scriptures of truth and words of the law at that place of the curse were fulfilled.
His mother, who bore Him, kept all His words and deeds in her heart. She was there to stay close and watch Him, though His pain pierced her like a dart. She was there when her Son spoke His last words. Other women were there to share her suffering with support and faith. They refused to leave Him alone, but when darkness covered the earth, they couldn’t see Him as He atoned for our sins.
John was there too, by the One he loved and knew as the Savior of men. He was in the right place where his faith clearly showed he could be trusted to provide a home for Mary. John was present when He forgave those who did not realize what they were doing. He heard the words of repentance and faith from a thief dying on another cross, as well as the words Jesus spoke when He saved the thief from hell. John immediately responded when his Lord spoke directly to him about caring for His mother. He was there when the words of accomplishment, “It is finished!” rang loud and clear from Jesus. He was present when the Lord bowed His head and dismissed His spirit.
Being exactly where He wants us—whether working or sharing a privilege with Him—is a great blessing that we can pass on to our children, so they too can partake in that work. The Lord's work might seem small from a distance, but when we are close enough to see Him, we understand how He sees it all.