Families and family relationships can be complicated and for at least the beginning of his ministry, it was even the same for Jesus’ family! Earlier on this week, we saw that his family were saying that Jesus was out of his mind and now presumably, they’re coming to Jesus to take him home. They have completely misunderstood who he is and what he came to do. Once again, Jesus is surrounded by the crowds and his family sent for someone to get him. However, Jesus transforms and radically opens his family up. Who is his family? Jesus says that anyone who sits at Jesus’ feet and then puts his words into practice is his brother, sister, and mother. This is amazing! This means that you and me and people we know can become part of Jesus’ family.

Now, this doesn’t mean that we leave our earthly families, but for some, believing in Jesus has meant just that for them! It’s not uncommon for people who have converted from other religions to be estranged and rejected by their family. This must be desperately hard for them but it is not without hope. For when we do turn to Christ, we become part of an unimaginably greater family. We become part of God’s family. We are brothers and sisters together and of Jesus. This is the same Jesus who we have seen over the past days has complete and total authority. This is the same Jesus who is King over the kingdom. This is the same Jesus who will ultimately go to his death and rise again, securing a place with him for eternity. Yes, we are his brothers and sisters. MC

Questions

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the amazing gift of being welcomed into your family. Thank you that you haven’t saved us just as individuals but as a whole body, as a whole church, as a family. Strengthen us as a church, unify us, and help us to do life together well for your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.