Matthew 12:46-50, Jesus' Mother and Brothers

46 While he was still speaking to the people, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, asking to speak to him. 48 But he replied to the man who told him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?”49 And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”

Comments

Jesus’ reply to the man was not a rejection of his family—he loved all of them—but his statement emphasized the higher priority of his spiritual relationship to those who believe in him. Sometimes faith in Jesus will lead to strain in our familial relationships and with others. Jesus does not want us to be surprised but to be encouraged that we are his sisters and brothers in his eyes.

Prayer

Brother Jesus, what a sibling you are to me. With you and in you I am never alone. Help me remember this when I am discouraged.