Who Are My Mother and My Brothers?

This meditation is based on a passage for March 2, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Mark 3:19b-35

Reflection and Question: Jesus’ declaration that His disciples and followers are His family is among the most radical comments of His whole ministry, particularly given the central place of the ancestral, patriarchal family in Jewish and Roman culture at that time. Matthew and Luke also testify to Jesus naming those who do His will as His “brother and sister and mother.” Jesus’ focus on the family gives the community of faith priority over traditional relationships and roles. At the same time, Jesus holds the church to a high standard of caring for one another — like family. Has the church been a good family for you?

Prayer: Jesus, our Teacher and Guide, we trust that You loved Your mother and brothers. And still the gathering of faithful believers to listen and learn at Your feet are more precious to You. Fit us into Your family where we all know and love You. Amen.