Dear Friends of Zion,

Each year the second Sunday in May is dedicated to remembering our mothers, whether living or departed. It is good to honor them. Mothers have a great responsibility and personal sacrifice. Being a mother is not easy. Having a mother is a great blessing.

I find it comforting that God came into this world as a child with a mother. Luke tells us that the boy Jesus "went down with them (Mary and Joseph) to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And His mother treasured all these things up in her heart" (Luke 2:51). Jesus knows what it is like to have a real mother. He even remembers her from the cross, as He entrusted her care to the disciple John.

The Bible also indicates that Jesus was a part of a family with other siblings. St. Matthew writes, "Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not His mother called Mary? And are not His brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all His sisters with us?" (Matthew 13:55-56). Jesus knows what it is like to be a part of a real family. He knows all about relationships and the being a member of a family.

I wonder what it was like being a part of Jesus' family. Sitting at the same table with Jesus sharing food and conversation must have been interesting. I am sure that Jesus' family faced concerns similar to the ones we have. When His family heard that Jesus not even able to eat because of the crowds following Him, St. Mark records that His family "went out to seize Him, for they were saying, 'He is out of His mind'" (Mark 13:21). I am sure my brother has felt the same about me for being a Red Sox fan.

On one occasion Jesus' family tried to reach Him. But because of the crowd surrounding Him to hear Him teach, they couldn't get near Him. Word came to Jesus that His mother and brothers were outside. Jesus responded, "Here are My mother and My brothers! Whoever does the will of God, he is My brother and sister and mother" (Mark 13:34-35).

Jesus looks at those who listen to His Word, who believe in Him, as His family. Jesus once said to His disciples before His death and resurrection, "If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him" John 14:23). By His grace our Lord makes His home with us. We are His family.

Look around at those who are part of the family of Jesus. He brings quite a few people together in the Holy Christian Church on earth. We find some of them right here at Zion Lutheran Church. May we always remember our family members in Christ, living or departed, even as we remember and honor our own mothers that God has given to us.

- Pastor