Scripture:
Luke 8:19-21 (WEBBE)
“His mother and brothers came to him, and they could not come near him for the crowd. It was told him by some saying, “Your mother and your brothers stand outside, desiring to see you.” But he answered them, “My mother and my brothers are these who hear the word of God, and do it.”
Reflection:
In this passage, we find Jesus redefining the concept of family in terms of spiritual relationships rather than physical ones. His biological family—His mother and brothers—come to see Him, but they are unable to approach Him due to the crowd. When informed of their presence, Jesus makes a profound statement about what it means to belong to His true family.
Jesus’ response to the message, “My mother and my brothers are these who hear the word of God, and do it,” shifts the focus from biological ties to spiritual ones. He emphasizes that true kinship in the Kingdom of God is determined by one’s relationship with His word and the actions that follow.
This teaching highlights several important principles:
- Spiritual Family: Jesus expands the idea of family beyond physical connections. In His view, those who hear and act on God’s word are His true family. This redefinition calls us to see our relationships within the faith community as central to our spiritual life.
- Hearing and Doing: The essence of belonging to Jesus’ family is not just hearing the word of God but doing it. Obedience to God’s commands is a key aspect of spiritual kinship. It’s through our actions that we demonstrate our commitment to His teachings and our relationship with Him.
- Inclusivity of the Kingdom: Jesus’ statement also underscores the inclusivity of the Kingdom of God. Anyone who responds to His word with faith and obedience can be part of His spiritual family, regardless of their background or status.
- Prioritizing Spiritual Bonds: While biological family is important, Jesus teaches that our primary allegiance is to the spiritual family of faith. This doesn’t negate the importance of our earthly relationships but places them in the context of our higher calling to live according to God’s will.
As we reflect on this passage, we are invited to consider our own place within Jesus’ spiritual family. Are we actively hearing and doing God’s word? How do we demonstrate our commitment to His teachings in our daily lives? How can we foster a sense of spiritual kinship with those around us who share the same commitment?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, we thank You for redefining what it means to be part of Your family. Help us to understand the importance of hearing and doing Your word, and to live out our commitment to You in our daily actions. May we build our relationships on the foundation of Your teachings and find our true kinship in the spiritual family of faith. Guide us to love and support one another as we seek to follow Your commands and grow closer to You. In Your name, Amen.
Application:
- Reflect on how you can more faithfully hear and act on God’s word in your life. Are there specific areas where you need to be more obedient or committed?
- Consider how you view your relationships within the faith community. How can you cultivate a stronger sense of spiritual kinship and support among fellow believers?
- Evaluate how you balance your biological family relationships with your spiritual commitments. How can you prioritize your spiritual family while honoring your earthly relationships?
Verse for Meditation:
“My mother and my brothers are these who hear the word of God, and do it.” (Luke 8:21, WEBBE)