When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic. But the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom, so they said to one another, “Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be.” This was to fulfill the Scripture which says,

“They divided my garments among them,
and for my clothing they cast lots.”

So the soldiers did these things, but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. — John 19:23-25

John is showing us the sharp contrast between two audiences around the Cross. One is an audience of male soldiers, laughing, unconcerned, and in control. Another audience of female family members crying, concerned, and being controlled. Between them, Jesus. The soldiers view him as shamed. The women view him as a son.

And then, with perspective, there is another look we get. It's one from John. About 50 years after this moment, John looks back at the Cross and now understands this man wasn't just a shamed son. He was Jesus, the Son of God, Savior of the World, who bore his shame so we might know no shame and God's Salvation.

Sometimes, at the moment, we don't always see the importance of the moment, all we see is the drama and the pain. But regardless of the moment you are having today, look back to the Cross. Remember the moment God turned shame into salvation. Trust his plan. You might see drama and pain but it could also be a divine moment.

ASK THIS:

How has your perspective or understanding of certain events in your life changed over time, and how does this relate to John's evolving understanding of the significance of the Cross?

In moments of personal struggle or doubt, how can you remind yourself to look beyond the immediate pain and see God's greater purpose at work in your life?

DO THIS: Look again at the Cross.

PRAY THIS: Lord, in the midst of life's storms, help me to always fix my eyes on Your unwavering love and guidance. Strengthen my faith and let me feel Your presence, even in the quietest moments. Amen.

PLAY THIS: At The Cross.