Christian Family Takes Care of Each Other
Jesus seems to hold his family in great disregard for his natural family in Mark 3:33-35. This needs to be seen in the context of other places where Jesus speaks highly of caring for parents including his own mother even as he hung on the cross. Again, we have to see Jesus using hyperbole to elevate the significance of what he is saying. All other allegiances must take second place. I read this week that Christianity was the first religion devoid of nationalistic connections like the Jewish faith’s connection to Jerusalem and Israel. Jesus throws the door wide open. He proclaims in Mark 3:34-35, “’Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.’” Family goes beyond biological relationship and tribe or nation.
So, our nuclear families now have a larger purpose and ministry to include others (especially believers) who have no nuclear family. Also, our churches are to be “family” for all Christians (and, I think, even those who have yet to believe.)
Remember, we are meeting Jesus, a person, who invites everyone to follow him (to do the will of God) into God’s healing community.
AMEN for now.