by[31] “Then His brothers and His mother came, and standing outside they sent to Him, calling Him. [32] And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are outside seeking You.” [33] But He answered them, saying, “Who is My mother, or My brothers?” [34] And He looked around in a circle at those who sat about Him, and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! [35] For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.” – Mark 3:31-35 (NKJV)
One time, Jesus was preaching to some people in the synagogue when His biological relatives, except for His sisters and father, stood outside, sending for Him. I suppose it was long since they came looking for Jesus because He had been travelling around with His disciples for quite a while. But Jesus didn’t walk away from the pulpit to go and see them. Instead, He said those who sat around Him were His brothers and mother. That was not all. He added that whoever does God’s will is His relative. Interesting.
Today, if a pastor says this to his congregation while his biological parents are around, he’ll be treated with contempt. Some people will say that he is not respectful to his parents and doesn’t regard his family. But Jesus said that part of the cost for following Him was that some relationships would be lost (see Matthew 19:29-30). I’ve practically seen people come out of ungodly relationships a few months after getting saved. So yes, following Jesus comes with a cost. But there is something Jesus said that will help you identify your kingdom brethren.
He said, “… whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.” But before that, He pointed to those listening to Him as His kingdom relatives. Right? That means it is God’s will for you to listen to His Word. As long as you do that, you are in God’s will. That also implies that missing church or not watching sermons is detrimental to your spiritual health because such acts can make you meander from God’s path. Be intentional about your walk with God.
You are a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for the gift of kingdom brethren in my life. Help me to identify myself around my kingdom brethren. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2026 – 055
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