Misunderstood

Scripture Reading Mark 3:20-21

When my children were young, I would sometimes get so busy caring for them I would forget to eat. Has that ever happened to you? Do you get fixated on a project or get so busy caring for someone else you neglect your own needs?

Jesus knows what that is like. After preaching to the crowds, calling His disciples and healing the sick, there were so many who wanted His help or to be near Him, that He “could not even eat.” Either the crowds were too many or He was just so passionate about His ministry He did not take the time to care for Himself.

And then to top it off, His family thought He was going crazy! I can imagine if it was my son or my brother. From such a young age He had been level-headed, a carpenter, the head of the family (it is thought that Joseph had passed away by this time), living the common normal life of a Jewish man. And then at 30 years old He went into the wilderness, wandered from town to town, healing the sick, drawing the attention of crowds AND the religious leaders. It is not surprising that His family was concerned.

But that seems to be the case even today. Someone can spend their days focused on religion, spend all their waking hours working for God and praying and studying, but the world will see them as a fanatic. But if someone spends every waking hour devoted to their work, seeking wealth or fame, neglecting family and God – now THAT is normal.

I’m sure it hurt Jesus to see His family not supporting His ministry. “For even His brothers did not believe in Him” John 7:5 Have you had family members who did not approve of something you were doing? Did you fell anger? Disappointment? For most of us, it is important to have the support of loved ones and it hurts when they do not agree with you.

Jesus’ answer is found at the end of the chapter. He says “Whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother.” Surround yourself with those who are Christians. Seek the support and encouragement of those who believe in God. Reach out to others so they also may enjoy the gift of eternal life.

PERSONAL APPLICATION IDEAS

• Consider the role of the pastor in your church or your community. Does he or she ever endure conflict from those outside of the church? Take a moment to give them words of encouragement through a letter, a message or a ‘virtual’ pat on the back.

• If you have young children, prepare a special thank you for their Sunday School teacher or their school teacher just to recognize their commitment to a role that is often overlooked.

Dear Lord, It is all too easy to go along with the normal activity of our day, focused on worldly achievements rather than heavenly rewards. Let me take this day to spend more time in your Word, more time in prayer and more time sharing your Word with others. Thank you for those who continue to as pastors and teachers of the word. Our world needs them now more than ever. In your name we pray, Amen.