Mark 3: 20 - 35

Throughout the Gospel of Mark, the author explores the question of who people believe Jesus to be. Whilst his disciples have a less than perfect understanding of the question, ‘Who do you say I am?’, those whose faith reveals the truth of Jesus are quickly sworn to secrecy. In this week's gospel, the misunderstanding of Jesus’ family and the misunderstanding of the Scribes show their incomplete grasp of who Jesus is. 

At the end of Sunday's gospel passage, Jesus states, ‘Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.’ Family bonds were critically important in First Century Palestine. Jesus does not deny his family kinship, but expands it to include anyone who does the will of God. All those who work to bring about the Kingdom or Reign of God share a bond with Jesus, they share a familial link with him. Whenever we act to bring about God’s dream for this world, we join our efforts with those of our brother, Jesus.