Reflection:

In today’s gospel, we have the final account of the reactions people have to Jesus’ ministry. His mother and brothers have come to see him concerned for his well-being as they think, “He is out of his mind.”

Does Jesus reject his family by not seeing them?

No, he is showing the crowd that there is a relationship that takes precedence over blood relations. Jesus redefines the concept of “family”. The crowd’s understanding of the family, according to the norms of the day was that it was the chief place where you would experience intimacy.

In contrast, Jesus highlights that the primary relationship in life is to God. He gives a challenging call to be like him. Relationship with Jesus brings intimacy, like that of a mother, brother, or sister.

Joanne McGrath is a parishioner of St Brigid’s Marrickville and a Passionist Companion.