Family Matters Forever

S - "Jesus went back home, and once again such a large crowd gathered that there was no chance even to eat. When Jesus' family heard what he was doing, they thought he was crazy and went to get him under control. … Jesus' mother and brothers came and stood outside. Then they sent someone with a message for him to come out to them. The crowd sitting around Jesus told him, “Your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside and want to see you.” Jesus asked, “Who is my mother and who are my brothers?” Then he looked at the people sitting around him and said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. Anyone who obeys God is my brother and sister and mother.” Mark 3

O -  The response of Jesus to his mother, sisters and brothers is not inspired by an offense taken because they thought he was crazy. He's not resisting them for their desire to control him.  He is presenting all, his mother, sisters and brothers, and all who will hear him, a reality which endures forever.  Everyone is wanted to be as close to him as the closest family connections earth can produce. In fact, he says anyone can be in this relationship to him. 

A -  The religion of Jesus' day (and all religions) do not think this is possible. They are always presenting themselves as the "select few", the only ones really "in". For such "anyone" will never do. The other identifying mark of those who are actually in such a relationship with the Jesus is obedience to God.  Here again he is in sharp conflict with religion. All the way through the four accounts (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) Jesus is accused of not obeying God. He's not conforming to the demands of religion; even those claiming scriptural authority for such demands.  Religion's interpretation and Jesus' are not the same.  I choose Jesus and his obedience, his interpretation; his beautiful, available, irrepressible life, presence and person.  

P - Lord and Brother,

It is more than amazing to me the wide open nature of your desire for all people … even me.  I am very grateful to be among the group called anyone.  I want to follow, want to obey and make myself completely available to you, your thinking, living and ways.  I don't want to control you.  I really do want you to be in control of me.  My answer is yes.

Anyone Steve