A Different Kind of Family

Second Sunday after Pentecost

Mark 3:19b-35

“Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother."  Jesus, Mark 3:35

“What is a ‘church’?”   I asked that question in a recent gathering.  It’s one of those questions where everyone knows the answer until you ask the question.  After a few moments trying to get words to form around the familiar, someone said, “a family.”  Another said, “a home.”  A third said, “a centering place.”  We frequently talk about ‘church’ using familial language and so does the New Testament.  As disciples of Jesus, we are “brothers and sisters in Christ”. 

Churches are very much like families.  We effectively use “family systems” theory to understand the relationship dynamics that cause churches to be both healthy and dysfunctional.  Churches, especially small churches, foster deep and lasting relationships that often span decades and generations.  Often, we celebrate and rejoice, fight and mourn like siblings.  Churches have family-like stories that shape us and “in language” that defines who we are.

Therein lies the problem.  Some years ago, I was talking with someone who had never been part of a church community, but had become interested in the Christian faith and in becoming a part of the faith community.  “I’ve been trying to find a church.”  the person said,  “Most are friendly enough, but when I visit, I feel like I’m crashing someone else’s family reunion.”   Being “family” can easily become a barrier to outsiders, it can cause us to turn inward, and make our communities so “close” that they become impenetrable -- in spite of our best intentions.

Jesus, I think, has a different kind of “family” in mind in Mark 3 when he addresses the crowds in his hometown.  Jesus’ definition of “family” has nothing to do with blood, or history, or closeness.  Jesus’ definition of family is defined by the will of God.   And what is God’s will?   Just that we love God with our whole heart, mind, and soul, and our neighbor as ourselves.  Just that we proclaim God’s Reign and care for those in need with compassion and generosity.  Jesus’ picture of family is broadly inclusive.  In Jesus’ family, everyone has a place at the table.  In Jesus’ family sins and even blasphemies are forgiven!  Lives are healed, reconciled and restored.

The Church of Jesus Christ is a family.  But, like God, our parent, and Jesus our brother, we siblings need to be focused outward, not inward.  Instead of clinging desperately to one another, churches need to let the Spirit blow us broad and wide.   Instead of feverishly protecting what we have, churches need to follow Jesus’ example and give ourselves away.   That may sound crazy, but then, they thought Jesus was crazy too.

Peace,

Bishop Mike Girlinghouse