Of all the sayings on the cross, this is the one that feels most remote to us. Sure, we get that Jesus is taking care of his Mom. That was the duty of the oldest son. He was a good son. But this is so much more than housekeeping instructions. Jesus has radically redefined family.  The family journey with Jesus had its bumps in the road. Remember when his mother and brothers all thought Jesus was out of his mind, and they came to get him? Matthew 12:46-50. Mark tells it a little differently - in the preceding verse, just before telling that story about Jesus, in Mark 3:30, there were some who were... "saying 'He's possessed by an evil spirit." In other words, Jesus, you've lost your mind. Jesus uses that moment to redefine family. He broadened the definition of mother and brother - to include you and me. He opened the door of family and invited us in. No matter the journey you have been on - no matter how family may have stung you - no matter the depth of disappointment or wound - there is a family that awaits you. Jesus invites you to the family.

Preach Jesus: Jesus and His Final Words Lived Out

All About Family

John 19:25-27 (Matthew 12:46-50)

"If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. If you look at God, you'll be at rest." - Corrie Ten Boom

Last words of Jesus on the cross:

• "Father, forgive them..."
• "Today, you will be with me in paradise."
• "Dear woman, here is your son. Here is your mother."

Begin in the Hurt

Standing - steadfast, abiding, always there

See Matthew 12:46-50

1 Corinthians 16:13, "Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong."

The Message: "Give it all you've got, be resolute, and love without stopping."

Exodus 14:13, "Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today."

Break through the Hurt

     1. Get Close

          Luke 23:49, "But Jesus' friends, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance watching."

          James 4:8, "Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world."

     2. Get Connected

     3. Get Courageous

          2 Chronicles 16:9, "The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him."