The Family!

[02/19/2008 “teEn-MAIL”]

THE FAMILY!

For the past several Sunday evenings I have been leading some discussion centering on ways in which to engage others in conversation that moves from merely commenting on the weather to spiritual matters. Among the techniques we have noted the last two Sundays is the use of questions. What is it that questions do? Actually a number of things. Questions get people to think. Questions draw out what others know in order to take them further in their understanding. Questions sometimes expose common ground. Questions can turn the tables or redirect the focus of others. Questions can spark curiosity and thus develop interest in further discussion. Etc.

Looking through the Gospels, Jesus -- Whom we may acknowledge as the Master Teacher -- was a master at using questions. Perhaps you would find it interesting to read through one of the Gospels paying close attention to the questions Jesus asked and consider why He might have asked them and how it impacted those to whom they were directed.

On one occasion when Jesus was teaching in a house, his mother and brothers came looking for Him, but were unable to get in due to the crowd. They conveyed through another individual that they wanted to speak to Him and Jesus’ response began with a question.

We read…
“But he replied to the man who told him, ‘WHO IS MY MOTHER, AND WHO ARE MY BROTHERS?’” ( Matthew 12:48 ESV)

Jesus’ question was such as would have directed the mind to consider where life’s closest bonds are truly found. Each one present would have known who their mother and father and brothers and sisters and other relations were. They would have logically understood Jesus knew who His were as well. I imagine this question caught their attention with perhaps wondering where this Master Teacher was going with such a line of thought.

There are “brotherhoods” (and sisterhoods) and considerations of a sense of family in various spheres of society. We find such mentioned among firefighters, police officers, civic organizations, etc. Though these relationships are not blood relationships there is a strong sense of camaraderie and a kindred spirit that creates a close bond between them. However, Jesus’ focus turned toward the SPIRITUAL KINSHIP that joins us together now and transcends this realm.

Jesus went on to answer His own question by stating…
“(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.’” ( Matthew 12:49-50 ESV)

Though physical family relationships are precious and have responsibilities associated with them that are not to be neglected ( Mark 7:9-13; 1 Timothy 5:8), Jesus noted this SPIRITUAL KINSHIP as holding even greater significance. Just as those within a physical family share certain likenesses (looks and mannerisms), there is even something visible that can be noted among those sharing the SPIRITUAL KINSHIP within God’s family; the doing of His Will! I pray each one of us is experiencing the preciousness of this relationship we have through the Lord that encompasses both Heaven and earth.

Have a great day BEARING THE FAMILY TRAIT OF DOING GOD’S WILL!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Relationships