Special Privileges

Luke 8:20-21 - He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.” But he answered them, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.”

Jesus was obviously busy. Crowds of people flocked to him demanding his time and personal attention. Some sought special privileges, including his mother and brothers. Somehow that does not surprise me. If my parents came to see me while I was busy with a large group, I would at least take time to greet them personally because of the special relationship we have. Throughout human history, cultures have placed familial relationships ahead of other relationships in priority, so Jesus’ words strike us as both rude and odd. Why would he not grant special visitation privileges to his parents?

Jesus makes a very strong point here, and it is not that we should not love our family members. Instead, Jesus is driving home that hearing and doing what God says is more important than anything. The privileges that come with a special relationship with Jesus are not limited to a select few who had the good fortune to be born into his family. You would have a tough time scheduling a visit with the U.S. President or even a CEO of a medium-sized company, but anyone can have special access rights with the greatest king in the universe. The question is: do you hear what he says and then live it?