Part of the Family
Although she isn’t my mother or an aunt, I feel there is a special bond that brings us together
Reference: v.34 Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! (TNIV Bible)
Explore: There are some people in this world that, although they are not blood related, you have a very strong bond with. I find that this often happens with people I have gone through a particular journey with.
When I was doing Beach Missions in my early 20s I met some amazing people. Even though we had only known each other for a very short time, we formed a very strong bond as we were all working so closely together.
Another friendship I have was established due to us doing a theological subject together. We travelled together each day and because we were learning the same material and meeting the same people, we formed a strong connection.
An older lady I know feels closer than just a friend as she used to foster young children. She is someone I know I can speak to about the challenges this brings, and she is always there to give me support and encouragement. Although she isn’t my mother or an aunt, I feel there is a special bond that brings us together.
Application: Our lives are enriched by the people we meet and those who journey with us. Although family is important, there are other people who cross our paths and help to shape us.
When Jesus started his ministry there were many people who came across his path and desired to follow Him. It seems that they were special to Him and meant a lot.
So important were the people that surrounded Jesus that He said they were like family.
If we are connected to God then we become divine family members. It’s not about having the same name or having grown up in the same neighbourhood; being united with Christ is about doing God’s will.
If we have the same purpose as Jesus – loving God and loving others – then we are welcomed into the holy family.
Prayer: Lord, being a part of Your family is more important than any other title I could aim for. May I strive to build a closer bond to You and to assist others in becoming a part of the family too. Amen.
What does it mean, to you, to be a part of Jesus’ family?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.