(J.R. Miller, “Daily Bible Readings in the Life of Christ” 1890)
“One of them, the disciple whom Jesus loved, was leaning on Jesus’ bosom.” John 13:23
We are not told the name of this disciple — but we know him by his place and posture. What were the traits in John’s character which made him the beloved disciple? One was his humility; another was his love — artists always paint his face in features of gentleness and affectionateness. Another of his winning traits was his trust. He never seems to have doubted.
When was it, that he reclined on Jesus’ bosom? It was in a time of great darkness. The Master was about to go away, and all the hopes of the disciples were being destroyed. But where was John in that darkness? Leaning on Jesus’ bosom! Just so, sorrow, instead of driving us into despair — should drive us nearer to Christ — to His bosom.
Where was it, that John learned? On Jesus’ bosom!
Not merely on His arm — the place of strength;
nor upon His shoulder — the place of upholding;
but on His bosom — which is the place of love and tenderness.
It is a great thing to know that divine omnipotence is underneath us in all our weakness; but mere omnipotence is cold. How much better it is — when omnipotence has the heart of love within it.
But what did John do? He leaned, rested his weight on the omnipotent love of his Lord. Christ wants all His friends to lean upon Him. He wants to carry our burdens for us and lay all our sins and cares upon Him; but more than this—ourselves! He wants to bear us—and our burdens.