MARY, THE MOTHER OF JESUS

Written by Luz Leigh – 21 March 2008

      Mary, the mother of Jesus, stood with Mary Magdalene and other women just outside the door that led t has become known as “The Upper Room” and that meal is depicted in paintings as “The Last Supper.” The women were privy to all that was being said in the room.

      As they listened while Jesus explained the meaning of the washing of the disciples’ feet by the Messiah, they joined hands and prayed that one day they, too, might be so blessed. It was an humbling experience for both the disciples and the women.

      When Jesus began to tell of things to come within a short time, Mary His mother, was troubled. She had always known He was destined for something monumental in God’s kingdom, but she never understood exactly what it would be. “Someone in this room will betray Me,” she heard her firstborn son say. She, along with other followers of Jesus, knew the religious leaders were not happy with His teachings. Having recognized this fact, she was fearful of what might happen to Him, but never in her wildest dreams did Mary imagine a member of the disciples would betray Him.

      Mary heard Jesus say to the one who would betray Him, “What you are about to do, do quickly.” Within the minute, Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, rushed out the door into the darkness of the night. Mary’s heart sank; so it was true. One of the chosen ones would turn her Son over to the religious rulers, who in turn would bring the Roman soldiers to arrest Him.

      She sank to the floor, sobbing. The beginning of the end was now. There was nothing more any mortal could do to stop the Plan of God from being carried out. All the years since His birth, Mary had carried secrets that only she knew. She treasured all the words the angels had brought to her before her conception, the words delivered to her on the night of His birth there in the stable in Bethlehem, and the times Jesus had spoken briefly to her when they were alone during his early adulthood. All the words were now being laid before her and she knew that this son she loved so dearly would soon pay the price for the sins of all mankind.

      “Mary, Mary,” she heard her name being called by her dear friend Mary Magdalene. “We must complete out duties here in the kitchen.” Mary realized she had been sitting for a long time with her thoughts. Jesus and the disciples had left the Upper Room to go to an olive grove beyond the Kidron Valley. This was the place He had gone many times with His disciples to rest and to pray. 

      Mary would soon learn this “haven” had now become the place where his arrest by the Roman soldiers would take place. Prompted by greed, Judas Iscariot had taken thirty pieces of silver to betray the Son of God.

      Mary and the other women completed their kitchen duties and sat down to rest. And to wait.