Who Is My Mother? Who Is My Brother?
Susan Sloan, Independence, MO, USA
Then his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside, they sent to him and called him. A crowd was sitting around him; and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside, asking for you.” And he replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” -Mark 3:31-35
In the United States, genealogy is a popular hobby. On my mother’s side of the family we have two books that detail our history and family lineage. One of the books begins with the writer explaining her desire to compile her family history, the importance of capturing the names and recording some of their stories. It begins in 1617. The last entries are from the mid-twentieth century. The second book focuses on another family member’s genealogy from1593-1987. My name is included in this one. It’s fascinating to find family connections and stories about family members.
The Bible contains many genealogy lists, records that kept track of families and relationships. In today’s scripture, Jesus is in a house and a crowd has gathered. Jesus’ mother and brothers are outside asking for him; they are concerned for him. He responds by asking, “Who are my mother and brothers?” He viewed his family as those who were with him in that moment-all who sought to be disciples and do God’s will.
Do our family history and lineage matter? What if we viewed everyone as family, regardless of our lineage? Would we be more compassionate, more loving?
If we could but recognize our common humanity, that we do belong together, that our destinies are bound up in one another’s, that we can be free only together, that we can be human only together, then a glorious world would come into being where all of us lived harmoniously together as members of one family, the human family. -Desmond Tutu (n.d.) http://www.azquotes.com/quote/934338
Prayer Phrase
Wherever I am, God is here.
Spiritual Practice
Breathe deeply and prayerfully consider the story you have just read. What is the Spirit’s invitation to you in these words? What does it look like to wake up to God’s presence in this moment?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
