Tuesday July 19th: We are family

‘Whosoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my mother and brother and sister.’

Matthew 12: 46-50

Remember the days when we played with children in our neighbourhood? When parents would meet at the village shop or on the streets? And the conversation will be – How yuh doing? Long time I eh see Miss Jane, how she going? We were one big family; every adult was ‘tante ‘, or uncle or cousin?

In today’s Gospel, Jesus invites us to be members of his family; we are called to be brothers and sisters. With this privilege comes the great responsibility to witness to our faith –to bring God’s love and compassion to others, especially the poor and vulnerable.
Like Mary at the Annunciation, we echo the words, “Be it done to us according to your word,” as we accept the teachings of Jesus on family. In faith we take up the challenge to live community, looking out for the well-being of all.
Today’s society is comprised of a myriad of dysfunctional communities but Jesus demonstrates here that families are not to close themselves off from the community.
Lord, let us live lovingly with one another.