Mary, the Mourning Mother

Mary did you know that your baby boy… Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy… Will soon deliver you.*

Mary had direct conversation with an angel and was told her son would be the Son of God who would reign forever, but we don’t know the depth of Mary’s understanding. She knew enough to tell Jesus they ran out of wine at the wedding in Cana. She told the servants to do whatever He told them. What as she expecting—then, and as His ministry grew?

She heard Jesus teach and saw Him heal. She was aware of His popularity and unusual lifestyle. Did she understand where this was leading? Or was she, like the disciples, expecting Him to bring about an earthly change?

Mary gave birth to Jesus, raised Him, watched Him work in Joseph’s shop. She followed His ministry, as any mother would. She also followed Him to the cross. How could she abide the cruelty, mockery, and suffering? Still, she watched, wouldn’t you? What was she hoping for?

None of us would choose to suffer as Mary did. And none of us have to, even if we’ve also lost a child. The anguish of that day subdues all grief by its eternal hope. We are saved for a future without tears or sorrow, a forever filled with joy and peace. Because of heaven’s perfect Lamb, Mary’s grief, and ours, will be dispelled. Mourning mothers and all believers in Christ will, with dried tears, one day rule the nations with Him, the Lord of all creation.

Mary, did you know that your baby boy Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy Would one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy Is heaven’s perfect Lamb?

*“Mary, Did You Know?” Songwriters: Mark Lowry / Buddy Greene