Christian Art | Jesus’ Family
Mark 3: 31-35 – Week 3 Ordinary Time, Tuesday (Audio Bible KJV, Spoken Word)
31 ¶ There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him.
32 And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee.
33 And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren?
34 And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!
35 For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.
Jesus family and friends have worried in earlier verses about Jesus’ sanity. His friends have tried to seize him, to save him from himself. Now his mother and his brothers come to find him. It seems natural to assume they are still very concerned, and that there has been what they perceive to be a breach in the family, which may be linked in some way to Jesus’ move to Capernaum.
In one way or another, it seems Jesus is behaving in a way that his family, including Mary, simply don’t understand at all, and which seems to them to require what some now call an intervention. We may ask: what light does this shine on our understanding of what kind of person Jesus was and what his ministry entailed?
We think of the story so far. The Annunciation: Mary is told by Gabriel she is going to bear a child by the Holy Spirit. Mary is scared – a powerful, supernatural being has come to Mary, in what must have seemed an invasion into her life, to acclaim her virtue and say that she is blessed among women – and Mary knows that this child is to be extraordinary, the Son of the Most High, the Son of God.
Mary visits Elizabeth: there is a close connection between John the Baptist and Jesus since before they are both born; they are communicating while they are both in the womb and they are family. Do we say it is likely John the Baptist and Jesus were closely acquainted prior to Christ’s baptism in the river Jordan? John’s ‘One who comes after me’ could be equally translated, ‘One who follows me.’ John and Jesus could have spent a lot of time with each other, sharing a lifetime’s spiritual journey, before either began his public ministry. Perhaps it is natural to assume as well that Mary and Jesus’ family have had thirty years to get to know, to love, to live intimately with Jesus – and that this is a part of the back story to the scene in today’s Gospel verses. It is a further mystery. Perhaps one thing we can say with certainty is that Jesus simply could not be contained within a small-scale family. Jesus’ mission had to explode those constraints.
There are many, many questions – and the mystery remains. Thoughts such as these illuminate our reading of these Gospel verses, in which Jesus rebuffs his mother’s and brothers’ request to see him. Jesus’ words may seem harsh – indeed the cleverness irony bordering on flippancy. There is, though, a deep Christian truth here, which is beautifully transformative, even though the expression of this truth may seem to grow from domestic conflict. The many people who have crowded around Jesus are his family. We are Jesus’ family. He gives that to us. Within Jesus’ family, loved, included, valued, hanging on Jesus’ words, there are many people who have never felt so loved, so valued, so included, ever before. This is again a revolutionary moment, and we are part of it.
Jerusalem! The mountains surround her,
so the Lord surrounds his people,
both now and forever. (From Psalm 124/125)
Concluding Prayer
Almighty God,
to whom this world with all its goodness and beauty belongs,
give us the grace joyfully to live this day in your name,
and to fill it with an active love for you and our neighbour.
We make our prayer through our Lord.
Audio Bible KJV | Endnotes
Jesus’ Christian Family
Mark 3:31-35 recounts a moment when Jesus’ family came to see him, and Jesus responded in a surprising way. This passage offers insight into Jesus’ relationship with his family, and what it means to be a part of Jesus’ Christian family.
The passage begins by stating: ‘There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him.’ (Mark 3:31) Jesus’ family had come to see him, but they could not get to Jesus because of the crowd that surrounded him. So, they sent word to Jesus, asking him to come out and speak with them.
But when Jesus was told that his family was waiting for him, Jesus responded in an unexpected way. He said: ‘Who is my mother, or my brethren?’ (Mark 3:33) Then Jesus looked around at the people who were listening to him and said: ‘Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.’ (Mark 3:34-35)
This statement by Jesus is often interpreted to mean that he was rejecting his biological family in favour of a new spiritual family. However, this interpretation is not entirely accurate. Jesus did not reject his family, but he redefined what it meant to be a part of his family. Jesus’ family is not defined by biological or blood relations, but by a commitment to doing the will of God.
This concept of a spiritual family is echoed throughout the New Testament. John 1:12-13 states: ‘But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.’ Here, the idea of being a part of God’s family is not based on biological relationships, but on belief in Jesus Christ.
In the Epistle to the Romans, the apostle Saint Paul expands on this idea. Saint Paul writes: ‘For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.’ (Romans 8:14-16) Here, Saint Paul emphasizes that being a part of God’s family is not just a matter of belief, but also of being led by the Holy Spirit and experiencing a deep sense of connection with God as our loving Father.
Through the history of the Church, theologians and religious authorities have reflected on the concept of being a part of Jesus’ family. Saint Augustine wrote about the importance of unity and love in the Christian family. He cited John: ‘Let us love one another, my brethren, for love is of God. And every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.’ (1 John 4:7) Saint Augustine emphasized that being a part of Jesus’ family means loving and caring for one another, just as we would in a biological family.
In the modern era, Catholic and Protestant theologians continue to explore the concept of being a part of Jesus’ family. Pope Francis has spoken frequently about the importance of unity and compassion in the Christian family. In a homily in 2013, Pope Francis said: ‘The Christian community is not an exclusive, closed sect, but a missionary community, a community that shares the good news with everyone.’ Francis emphasizes that being a part of Jesus’ family means reaching out to others and welcoming them into the family of God.
C.S. Lewis, who was an Anglican, wrote about the importance of being a part of Jesus’ family. In his book Mere Christianity, Lewis writes: ‘The Christian is called not to individualism but to membership in the mystical body.’ C.S. Lewis emphasizes that being a part of Jesus’ family means being connected to all other believers, and working together for the sake of the Gospel.
Our thought of spiritual family emphasizes the importance of love, unity, and compassion, as well as a deep connection with God as our loving Father. All are welcome. We are invited to be a part of Jesus’ family.
Saint Christopher is believed to have been born in the third century in the region of Canaan. According to the ‘Golden Legend’ by Jacobus de Voragine, Saint Christopher was initially named Reprobus, meaning ‘Outcast’, and was of considerable physical stature, often described as a giant. Seeking to serve the greatest king in the world, he initially offered his services to a local king. However, upon seeing the king’s fear of the devil, Reprobus decided to serve the devil instead. This narrative is a critical turning point that showcases Saint Christopher’s relentless pursuit of serving true greatness [ … ]
Scripture: John 14:27 ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.’ In this verse, Jesus offers his peace to his disciples, a peace that is different from what the world provides. This divine peace is deep, abiding, and capable of calming troubled hearts and dispelling fear. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding and is rooted in the presence and promises of Christ. Prayer Dear Jesus, I come before you, seeking your peace in my life. The world around me is filled with chaos and uncertainty, but I know that your peace can calm the storm within my heart. Help me to trust in you more deeply, to rest in your promises, and to feel your presence in every moment. Fill me with your peace that surpasses all understanding, and help me to be a vessel of your peace to those around me. Amen. Personal Reflection What areas of your life are causing you anxiety or fear? How can you invite Jesus’ peace into these areas? Reflect on a time when you experienced Christ’s peace amidst turmoil. Meditation On Prayer And Gospel John 14:27 reveals a profound truth about the nature of Jesus’ peace. Unlike the fleeting and often superficial peace offered by the world, Jesus’ peace is enduring and deeply transformative. This peace is not dependent on external circumstances but is anchored in the character and promises of Christ. As we navigate through life’s challenges, it’s crucial to understand and embrace this divine peace. Jesus’ peace is rooted in his presence. When he says, ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you,’ Jesus is assuring us of his continual presence. This peace is a gift that flows from his abiding presence in our lives. It is a reminder that we are never alone, no matter what we face. his presence brings comfort and security, allowing us to rest even in the midst of life’s storms. Furthermore, Jesus contrasts his peace with the peace that the world gives. The world’s peace is often conditional and temporary, based on circumstances that can change in an instant. In contrast, Jesus’ peace is steadfast and eternal. It is a peace that reassures us in our deepest fears and anxieties, reminding us that he is in control. This peace transcends our understanding, as it is grounded in the eternal and unchanging nature of God. To experience Jesus’ peace, we must cultivate a relationship with him. This involves spending time in prayer, meditating on his word, and seeking his presence in our daily lives. It also means surrendering our worries and fears to Jesus, trusting that Jesus will provide and protect. As we draw closer to Jesus, his peace fills our hearts and minds, transforming our outlook and calming our spirits. One practical way to embrace Jesus’ peace is through prayer and meditation. By setting aside time each day to be still before the Lord, we create space for his peace to fill us. Reflecting on scriptures like John 14:27 can remind us of his promises and help us focus on his presence. Additionally, practicing gratitude can shift our focus from our worries to the many blessings in our lives, further opening our hearts to his peace. Another aspect of embracing Jesus’ peace is learning to let go of control. Often, our anxiety stems from a desire to control our circumstances. Jesus invites us to trust in his sovereign plan, even when we do not understand it. By surrendering our need for control and placing our trust in Him, we open ourselves to the peace that comes from knowing that He holds all things in his hands. Living in Jesus’ peace also means becoming peacemakers in our relationships and communities. As we experience his peace, we are called to extend that peace to others. This involves forgiving those who have wronged us, seeking reconciliation, and promoting harmony wherever we go. By being agents of his peace, we reflect his love and grace to a world in desperate need of his presence. Prayer Lord Jesus, Your peace is a precious gift that the world cannot give. In times of turmoil and distress, remind me to turn to you. Let your peace guard my heart and mind, dispelling all fear and anxiety. Teach me to trust in your unfailing love and to rest in your promises. Help me to be a peacemaker, sharing your peace with those around me. May your peace reign in my heart, my home, and my relationships. Thank you for your constant presence and the gift of your peace. Amen. Scripture: Matthew 5:9 ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.’ Blessing May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ fill your heart and mind, guiding you through every challenge and bringing you comfort and joy. May you rest in his unending peace and share it generously with those around you. Amen.
In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus’ message may strike us as difficult to understand. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus’ message is one of peace and Christian brotherhood, of reconciliation with our fellow human beings and with God, whom we are asked to call Father. Today Jesus speaks of variance and contradiction. Jesus tells us that he has not come to bring peace, but a sword [ … ]
