1. Luke 11:27-28 (Blessed are those who hear the Word of God)
*"As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, 'Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.' He replied, 'Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.' "*
Reflection: In this passage, a woman praises Mary for being the mother of Jesus. However, Jesus redirects the praise to emphasize that true blessedness comes from hearing and obeying God’s Word. Here, He shifts the focus from His biological relationship with Mary to the importance of spiritual obedience to God. This shows that what is most important is not who Mary is, but rather a person's response to God's call.
2. Matthew 12:46-50 (Who is My Mother?)
*"While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. Someone told him, 'Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.' He replied to him, 'Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?' Pointing to his disciples, he said, 'Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.' "*
Reflection: When Jesus is told that His mother and brothers are looking for Him, He responds by defining family in spiritual terms. Jesus highlights that true family is based on doing the will of God, not biological connections. This underscores that the focus of His mission is on spiritual obedience and following God’s will, not on exalting earthly relationships, including His relationship with Mary.
3. John 2:3-4 (Wedding at Cana)
*"When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, 'They have no more wine.' 'Woman, why do you involve me?' Jesus replied. 'My hour has not yet come.' "*
Reflection: In this interaction, Mary brings a need to Jesus at the wedding in Cana, and Jesus gently reminds her that His mission is guided by God's timing, not human requests. Although He later performs the miracle, His statement emphasizes that His actions are aligned with the divine plan, indicating that His primary focus is on God's will, rather than on familial ties or the desires of others, even His mother.
Key Takeaway:
In these passages, Jesus consistently redirects attention away from earthly relationships, including His relationship with Mary, to highlight the importance of obedience to God's Word and doing God's will. Although Mary is honored as His mother, the emphasis remains on spiritual faithfulness and God's overarching plan. This demonstrates that glory belongs to God, and true blessedness comes from following His Word.
