Commentary on the Gospel of
As Jesus was going through a course of tough confrontation with the Religious leaders and temple authorities, it is natural that his family back in his village is concerned. His mother and relatives were apprehensive over his welfare, and at the same time, were embarrassed by his behaviour. He was overworked ‘not even having time to eat.’ He was proclaiming Himself as Son of God which appeared to be an unusual claim. His family did not fully understand his ministry and his ways. Jesus made a shocking claim when his mother and relatives asked for him.
There is a greater family existing than human family which has supremacy over blood relationship. It is the family of God and of all those who do the will of God. Jesus means that blood relations and family traits are not enough create a genuine family. It is also our human experience that a true family and kinship do not exist just because of common blood. Too many families are in turmoil and torn apart.
Therefore, something more is needed. True family is based on a common relationship with God. This is a spiritual relationship. This is ultimately more important and lasting than the relationship formed in physical families. The basis of this kinship is the acceptance of Jesus as Lord and doing the will of God. All those who commit their lives in doing God’s will are bound together spiritually. Jesus says there is no greater kinship can exist.
