The following series is based on a book written by Jeremy and Sushma Ballard, “Is Your Home a Jesus Home?” The book is available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback & eBook), Barnes & Noble (Paperback & eBook), and Apple Books (eBook). Every purchase helps to support Jesus Home Ministries and the work Jeremy and Sushma are doing.
In our previous discussions, we’ve explored the themes of family roles, love, forgiveness, and spiritual leadership. Today, we turn our attention to a vital yet often overlooked responsibility: honoring the widows.
When Jesus was on the cross, His concern for His mother demonstrated the deep love and respect He had for her. Jesus, knowing that His earthly father was no longer alive and that His mother was a widow, took steps to ensure her care. He entrusted John, the disciple whom He loved, with the responsibility of looking after His mother. This act of compassion highlights the importance of caring for widows and honoring them, a principle that is emphasized throughout Scripture.
Read John 19:25-27
Jesus’s act of entrusting John with His mother’s care speaks volumes about our responsibility toward widows, especially within our families. As Paul instructs in 1 Timothy 5:3-4, we are called to “Honor widows who are actually widows; but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show proper respect for their own family and to give back compensation to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God.” This means that caring for widows, particularly those who are close to us, is not just a duty but a reflection of godly living.
If your parent or grandparent is a widow, it is your responsibility to ensure their well-being. This does not necessarily mean that they must live with you, but it does mean that you should be attentive to their needs. Providing for them, whether by offering a place to live or by helping with their financial or emotional needs, is a way to honor them and, by extension, to honor God.
The concept of honoring widows goes beyond merely providing for their physical needs. It involves showing them respect, listening to their wisdom, and valuing their presence in your life. In many cultures, the elderly, and particularly widows, are often marginalized or forgotten. As followers of Christ, we are called to counter this trend by showing them the honor and care they deserve.
Jesus’s example on the cross is a powerful reminder that honoring widows is a matter of the heart. It requires us to step into their shoes, understand their needs, and respond with love and compassion. Whether it’s a simple act of kindness, a regular visit, or providing more substantial support, every act of honoring a widow reflects our commitment to living out the love of Christ.
As you reflect on this message, consider the widows in your life—whether they are family members, neighbors, or members of your church community. How can you honor them today? How can you provide for their needs and show them the love and respect that God calls us to demonstrate?
Remember, honoring widows is not just about fulfilling an obligation; it’s about embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways. Just as Jesus entrusted His mother to John, we are entrusted with the care of those who are vulnerable and in need. Let us rise to this calling with hearts full of compassion and hands ready to serve.
In honoring widows, we honor God. It’s a sacred responsibility that reflects our commitment to living out our faith in practical, loving ways. As you go about your day, keep in mind the widows in your life. Let your actions toward them be a testament to your love for Christ and your desire to serve Him by serving others.
Next time, we will discover God’s plan to restore His original design.
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