The Bigger Picture

The story of the Mary becomes quiet for sometime after the Jerusalem visit when they found Jesus at the temple. After that she is only mentioned a few times between Jesus’ temple visit and Jesus’ death.

She was present at Jesus’ first public miracle – when he turned the water to wine at the marriage ceremony in Cana and the next record of her is when she and her other sons came to visit Jesus while he was intently teaching a large crowd.  Now Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him, but they were not able to get near him because of the crowd. Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.” He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.” – Luke 8:19-21

That might sound a bit harsh at first, but remember when He was found in the temple He reminded His earthly parents that He was here for a much bigger purpose, His Father’s business. During that teaching He took a moment to teach that His most important family included those who followed Him, like the disciples. Most likely the response didn’t surprise Mary because of all the information that she had hidden in her heart.

As believers we are part of the family of God. Sometimes we miss the bigger picture and only focus on our immediate family members, but the family of God is worldwide. It is the body of Christ, the whole church! Keep that in mind as you celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ this season. Your family around the world celebrates with you.

Praises & Prayers

Father, thank you for the privilege of following You and being a part of Your Church. Help us remember our brothers and sisters around the world as we come together to celebrate You Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Messages from His Word

Matthew 12: 48-30

 He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?”  Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers.  For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”