Daily Reflections ...

There’s seems to be a reprimand in today’s gospel. Jesus’ family comes forward, wanting to speak with him while he is amongst a crowd of people. There is nothing explicit, but in his response to his disciples, Jesus says ‘Here are my mother and brothers.’ Rather than ignoring his family, Jesus makes the point that those who do the will of God are members of God’s family. Rather than degrading his own family, Jesus takes this moment to elevate all those present to the place of mother, brother, family.

When we seek to be noticed or be listened to, do we consider the dignity of others who also have claim to being respected and valued. Do our actions elevate the wellbeing of others or do they suffer because of our insistence in taking pride of place or whose voice must be heard?

There are times when we will feel a reprimand from Christ, but it’s a reprimand that can elevate us and call us on in holiness because it calls us to look beyond ourselves and consider the needs of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

by Nattasha Mierendorf