“ Now Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him, but they were not able to get near him because of the crowd. 20 Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.” 21 He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.” Luke 8.19-21
Our Roman Catholic friends believe that Jesus did not have any biological brothers or sisters and that Mary remained a perpetual virgin her entire life. I take verses like this one to support the opposite view: that Jesus did indeed have true siblings who came from the union of Mary and Joseph. In no way does this tarnish her reputation as the Theotokos, “God-bearer.” (On a side note, I do not believe Mary was sinless—she was good and holy, but only Jesus was sinless and perfect.)
That being said, Jesus was ministering to the crowds. By this time, He was already surrounded by hundreds of people. When Mary and His brothers came to see Him, they could not get near because of the crowds, so they either sent word to Jesus or someone sent it for them.
When word reached Jesus that His family was there and wanted to see Him, He did not immediately stop His teaching and go to them. Perhaps He finished His message first, but at that moment, He used the situation to make an important point—one that applies to everyone who came after, including us!
Jesus said, “My mother and brothers (and sisters, He says in another Gospel) are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.” This is the family of God. Anyone who hears, responds, and obeys can be part of God’s holy family. Hear God’s word and put it into practice, and you will be welcomed by the Lord. What is God’s ultimate word? His ultimate message? Jesus Christ came to save sinners! That’s it. We hear that word, receive Christ into our hearts as Lord and Savior, and become part of this family.
Jesus was not dismissing His biological family; He was using the moment to illustrate a greater reality: we can all be part of God’s family if we believe.
Yesterday would have been my dad’s 86th birthday. He went to be with the Lord this summer (July 3, 2025), and I have no doubt where he is today. He loved the Lord and received Him into his heart. He is now in Heaven with the Father. As I honor him today, I am thankful that each of us can follow in his footsteps because of Jesus’ gracious invitation: to hear, listen, and obey the Word of God.
“O Lord God, this message of hope passes from one generation to another. What Jesus began so many years ago continues today. Thank You, Lord, for allowing Your word to produce fruit in those who listen. Help me to listen and respond—to run from sin and take shelter from temptation. I love You, Lord, and praise Your name, for You are good and Your love endures forever.” Amen.