Verse: Matthew 12:46-50
46 While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. 47 Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.” 48 He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers” 49 Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 50 For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”

Devotion:
In this passage, we see a moment that challenges our understanding of family and relationships. Jesus is approached by someone who tells him that his biological family is outside, wanting to speak with him. However, instead of going to meet them, He poses a the question: “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?”

At first glance, this response may seem weird and dismissive. However, when we dig a little deeper, it reveals a profound truth about the nature of spiritual kinship. Jesus is redefining family and what it means to belong. His true family is not limited to biological ties but is expanded to include anyone who does the will of His Father in heaven. This shift invites us to reflect on our own understanding of family and community.

In light of Jesus’ response, we can redefine what we think of as “family”. In our society, we often define family in the traditional sense, by blood relations. However, Jesus invites us to consider the family of faith. When we take the time to consider the people closest around us it shifts our perspective. Look around you—who are the people in your life that support, nurture, and challenge you in your walk with God? We can challenge ourselves to reach out to someone from your spiritual family today, whether it’s a fellow church member or a friend who shares your faith.

The family of God is a diverse and beautiful tapestry of individuals united by faith. Today, take the time to consider ways to engage more deeply with your community. This could look like joining a small group, volunteering, or simply inviting someone for coffee to share and grow together in faith. Push yourself to develop these relationships, knowing how important these ties are to the Lord.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of family, both biological and spiritual. Help me to see and appreciate the community of believers that surrounds me. Help me to see the relationships You want me to pour into and grow. Give me guidance on when to step outside of my comfort zone to deepen these bonds. Teach me to recognize and embrace those who do Your will as my brothers and sisters in Christ. May I be guided by Your Spirit to live out Your purpose in my life. Strengthen the bonds within Your family, and help us to support one another on our journeys of faith. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Author: Becca Artymenko