Today's Bible reading is the 19th chapter of the Book of John. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+19&version=NASB

I know that the physical things that Jesus suffered during His "examination" and crucifixion are not comparable to what it was like to "be sin on our behalf" and be forsaken by the Father while bearing the sin of the world. But make no mistake, His physical punishment and suffering was tremendous and perhaps its horror even greater because He was completely innocent. Today's passage begins by John writing that Pilate "took Jesus and scourged Him". Scourging was quite simply a whipping with a multi-thonged whip that had been fashioned with pieces of glass or pottery woven into the leather thongs that were intended to inflict great pain and injury. A crown made out of thorns was then placed on His head. In Mathew's account we read that after they placed the crown of thorns on His head they began to beat Head with a reed. There is no doubt that with each striking of the reed the crown of thorns would pierce deeper into the flesh of His head. Jesus was then mocked as being "King of the Jews" and given "slaps in the face" by His mockers and yet He was "as a lamb before it's shearer" silent. While being crucified, hanging from a cross by the nails that had been driven through His feet and hands, we see Him concerned for His mother's welfare. This is a remarkable scene that demonstrates our Saviors concern for our practical daily needs as well as our great spiritual need. Quite literally, while dying for His mother's sins, He entrusts her care to the "disciple whom He loved" who was standing nearby the cross with His mother. From that hour,the scripture says, the disciple took Jesus' mother into his own household. I'm thankful that He continues to care for our deepest spiritual needs while also having on His mind our practical daily needs and making provision for them. What a wonderful Savior is He.