Gospel reading: Mark 3.31-35
Then [Jesus’] 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.’
Reflections
Jesus is surrounded by a crowd when his mother and brothers come to call him. But he does not leave the crowd and go with them, even though the crowd appears to expect it. Instead he uses the opportunity to teach them about the nature of those who are his true family members.
But first he looks at the crowd sitting around him, and begins “Here…”. Jesus affirms the people who were already there, who had come seeking him, desiring his presence, to be present to him and learn from him, and to follow him.
Oh and it is so sustaining to be affirmed! I’ve followed Jesus for 32 years, and it is good to hear words such as “Ah yes. Here you are, my Beloved child, in your faithfulness, continuing to seek me and my will. Well done, good and faithful servant.”
-oOo-
Since April 2020, I have been jointly hosting a shared Lectio Divina group on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings. These are my reflections only, during the prayer session and as I wrote them up. Please see my separate commentary and leaflet for more information about shared Lectio.