Gospel
Luke 8:19-21
The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”
Sermon
My brothers and sisters in Christ, today's Gospel challenges our understanding of family and relationships. Jesus' words may seem startling, even provocative, but they reveal a profound truth about our identity as children of God.
The scene unfolds with Jesus' mother and brothers seeking to meet with him, but the crowd prevents them. Instead of prioritizing familial ties, Jesus expands the concept of family.
"My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it." (LK 8:21)
Jesus redefines family, shifting the focus from biological bonds to spiritual kinship. Those who hear and act on God's word become part of His inner circle.
This teaching has far-reaching implications:
1. Spiritual family transcends bloodlines: Our faith connects us to a broader community, united in our commitment to God's word.
1. Obedience is key: Hearing and acting on God's word is the hallmark of true discipleship.
1. Inclusive and expansive: Jesus' family includes all who seek to follow Him, regardless of background or social status.
This redefined family is built on:
- Shared faith
- Mutual support
- Common purpose
As members of this spiritual family, we are called to:
- Listen attentively to God's word
- Obey His commands
- Support one another in our walk with Christ
In doing so, we become part of something greater than ourselves – a family that spans heaven and earth.
Prayer
Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Almighty, merciful, and loving God, we thank you for revealing to us the true meaning of family through Jesus' words.
Help us to understand that our spiritual family transcends biological ties, uniting us with all who hear and act on your word.
Grant us the courage to obey your commands, living out our faith with authenticity and conviction.
We pray for strength to support one another in our walk with Christ, building a community founded on shared faith, mutual support, and common purpose.
Unite your church family, bridging divides and fostering love and inclusivity.
Thank you for embracing us as your children, regardless of background or social status.
May our commitment to your word be the hallmark of our discipleship.
We pray for:
- Deeper understanding of spiritual family
- Guidance in living out your word
- Strength in obeying Christ's teachings
- Unity within the church family
- Opportunities to share our testimony
In Jesus' most holy name, we pray, Amen.
Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,
Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ