Thoughts for the Day

And the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. When his family heard it, they went out to restrain him, for people were saying, ‘He has gone out of his mind.’

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

These two verses in Chapter 3 of Mark's Gospel describe a scene that must have been absolute chaos. Jesus has made his home with Simon (Peter) and Andrew in Capernaum, but the crowds of those who want to be healed have followed. They have spilled over from the street into the courtyard and include those who wish Jesus harm - the scribes, pharisees and maybe even the supporters of Herod! Into this mêlée of noise and movement comes another group, the family of Jesus from Nazareth. Like others they want to stop his mission, possibly to protect him from what has happened to John the Baptist, but these verses dramatically emphasise the distance between him and his loved ones.

This incident should remind us that following our calling or mission in life may not always be easy or well-received by everyone. Sometimes our choices are not understood by those we love, particularly if they are related to our faith - which may not be shared by others in the family. Christians can be hampered by those who wish us well but disagree with our choices - like going to church!

I was very blessed by the support I received from my husband and family as I moved towards ordination as a priest, despite receiving the cold shoulder from traditionalists, and while receiving some anonymous poison pen letters. I remember how upheld I felt by the love and prayers of friends and family at the time.

Today, many Christians still feel under threat for one reason or another, but we need to trust that God's plans are bigger than ours and will work out in the end. His Kingdom will be achieved! In the meantime we need faith and copious amounts of patience. Or as we might say, "Hang in there, and keep praying!"

Lord Jesus Christ,
when we feel marginalised as Christians;
when the world and those around us
try to discredit our faith in You;
when the messages of Christmas and Easter
become secularised;
and when our values are devalued,
strengthen our faith that Your plans
which are eternal are what really matter.
Amen.