Philip Raj csc.
Readings: 2 Sam 6:12-15, 17-19; Mk 3:31-35
In the first reading, David brought the ark of the covenant from the house of Obed-edom into his city and elicited great joy among the people. The ark of God represented the immediate presence and glory of God in Israel. David, expressing his jubilation offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord. He rejoiced with people by sharing the offerings.
In the gospel reading Jesus extends an invitation for all to be his mother and brother. To become mother or brother of Jesus we need to do the will of God in our lives. Saint Bede elucidates that obedience to the word of God transforms us into Jesus’ mother, bringing him into the world through our words and actions.
This also makes us Jesus’ brothers and sisters because our obedience makes us all children of the Father in heaven. Jesus not only calls us mothers and brothers but also friends and disciples, as emphasized in the Gospel of John 15:14, “You are my friends if you do what I command you,” and John 13:35, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”
Aspire to be a mother, brother, friend, or disciple of Jesus by diligently adhering to the Father’s will in our lives. Jesus knew the will of the Father because he was always in touch with the Father through his prayer. To know the will of God in our lives we too are invited to be in touch with God through our constant prayer and reflection on the word of God.