Reflect today on Jesus' invitation to be part of his family

Da Paolo Tessione - September 22, 2020

"My mother and my brothers are the ones who hear the word of God and act on it." Luke 8:21

You may have wondered what it would be like to have a powerful and famous family member. What would it be like if your brother or parent were the president of the United States? Or a famous athlete? Or some other famous person? It would probably be a source of some joy and pride in a good way.

By the time Jesus walked the Earth, he was becoming quite "famous", so to speak. He was admired, loved and followed by many. And as he spoke, his mother and brothers (who most likely would have been cousins) showed up outside. No doubt people looked at them with a certain respect and admiration and perhaps even a little jealousy. How nice it would be to be Jesus' true relative.

Jesus is quite aware of the blessing of being his relatives, part of his own family. For this reason he makes this statement as a way to invite everyone present to consider themselves a close member of his family. Sure, our Blessed Mother will always keep her unique relationship with Jesus, but Jesus wants to invite all people to share Her family bond.

How does this happen? It happens when "we hear the Word of God and act on it." It's that simple. You are invited to enter Jesus' family in a profound, personal and profound way if you only listen to everything God says and then act accordingly.

While this is simple on one level, it is also true that it is a very radical move. It is radical in the sense that it requires a total commitment to God's will. This is because when God speaks, His words are powerful and transforming. And acting on His words will change our lives.

Reflect today on Jesus' invitation to be part of his intimate family. Listen to that invitation and say "Yes". And as you say "Yes" to this invitation, be ready and willing to let his voice and divine change your life.

Lord, I accept your invitation to become a member of your intimate family. May I hear your voice speak and act on everything you say. Jesus I believe in you.