The value of family

If we conclude from today’s passage that Jesus disregarded family relationships, that would be a great misunderstanding. Let us look at what the Bible teaches about family relationships: “Honor your father and your mother” (Ex. 20:12). “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Eph. 6:1). “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4). Jesus Himself, from the cross, fully demonstrated His love for His mother Mary. “So when Jesus saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son!’ Then He said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!’ And from that hour the disciple took her into his own household” (John 19:26-27). It can be said that when the value of family is disregarded, such a society is on the brink of collapse. The destruction of the home in the name of faith is not limited to cult religions. Whether one is a full-time evangelist or a regular believer, wherever ministry becomes an idol, families are wounded and homes begin to fall apart. Let us once again examine the time we share with our families and the quality of that time.

Putting first things first

Then how should we understand Jesus’ statement, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it”? In conclusion, it means to value family relationships, and at the same time, to live by “putting first things first.” In this passage, Jesus was already devoted to His public ministry. While He was in the midst of speaking the message of the kingdom of God, surrounded by crowds, His mother Mary and His brothers came to see Him. From the context, we can sense both the unbelief of Jesus’ family and a rather overbearing attitude on their part. However, no matter how close the family may be, it is not permitted to hinder the work of God. Therefore, Jesus said, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.” Are there people or things close to you that are becoming obstacles to the work of God? Let us pray now for the courage to “put first things first.”