The True Kindred of Jesus

Today’s Gospel Jesus’ response must have surely surprised the disciples. His immediate respond “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” I assume the disciples were somewhat taken aback by Jesus’ question. After all, his words gave the impression that his mother and his brothers were unimportant to him. It almost sounded like he had no respect for them. However, Jesus here wanted to convey a very different message to his listeners. Jesus then said: “Any person who does God’s will is my brother, sister and mother.”

Don’t we all wish to be considered as Jesus’ brother, sister, mother, or father. However, the condition for this relationship is that we have to do the will of his heavenly Father. Now the question arise is: How do I know what God’s will is for me? I may not receive an official letter from God commissioning me to this or that or to go to a foreign country to be a missionary. However, every day as we interact with individuals someone may need a listening ear, some kind of support or just a smile. At times God’s will for us is to be just inclusive and loving with every individual who crosses our path.

Today as you go about your day, I invite you to be aware of the gifts you can share with the individuals you meet. They don’t have to be big gifts; they may seem insignificant to you. However, the other person may be blessed with your small but generous gift.