"Woman, behold, your son." (John 19:26)

According to the Law of Moses, the status of the first born son of a family was perceived as extreme importance. When Esau sold his birthright to Jacob, the author of the genesis commented:” Esau cared little for his birthright.” (Refer to Genesis 25:27-34)   

When Jesus said to His own mother “Woman, behold, your son”, for sure Jesus didn’t mean to give up His birthright, but instead He had offered His mother to become also the real mother of His disciples (including every one of us).

When Mother Mary heard that, her first response might have felt sorrow, for it seemed that she had just lost her identity as the mother of the Messiah, but she might have felt joy, for she was blessed to become the mother of all mankind.

Actually, Mary had never failed her duty as a mother: she stayed close to the disciples when the Holy Spirit came upon them; she accompanied John on his trip to Jerusalem for the first Apostolic Conference. (Of course Mary hadn’t participated at the meeting herself).

Mary referred herself as “I’m your mother” each time she appeared for mankind.

Many have challenged if Mary’s position was really that significant as far as salvation is concern. If we are the true followers of Jesus, just trust in His word: "Behold, your mother." (John 19:27)