6/4 (G) “Dealing with Divisions and Decisions” Rev. Deb Lind
Click here for worship material
June 9th, 2024, (G) “Dealing with Divisions and Decisions” Rev. Deb Lind
Mark 3: 20-35
Jesus appointed the 12 to be sent out as apostles to do HOLY WORK..
Mark 3: 20 Pressing crowds surround Jesus, pressuring him to cure diseases and cast out
demons. Which he does but there is no relieve, no escape.
His disciples see how they are pursuing and crushing the miracle worker. Jesus is treated like a
healing stone …people are touching him and falling before him.
Finally he escapes the clamor by going up the mountain. Jesus knows he needs help to meet
the needs of many. So he appoints 12 no longer students or disciples. Rather they are now
called apostles because they have the duty to “go out” in Christ’s name. This SHOULD take the
load off Jesus’ but at the moment, it is debatable. Jesus seeks peace and relieve in his home.
However, his family couldn’t eat in peace. Crics shout out that Jesus has broken the law and is
in league with Satan, Beelzaba. His rebuttal could have been the queson “Is Curing people and
casting out demons a crime?” Instead, Jesus retorts, You say I am posses by evil, Satan. How
can I cast out Satan when you say I am Satan.. (I’m using the word we know)
How can you accuse me of being evil when I am doing good, healing the sick mind, body and
soul.
It’s a ridiculous scene. Even some of Jesus family claims he is mental deranged.
There is division and derision in the crowds, community and his family. However, his disciples
and other loyal followers stand close and reasonable quiet.
And, then new family system is defined. Kinship is not about bloodlines, according to Jesus.
Family is bigger and broader in some respects. Those who love God and follows my teaching
form a new kinship. A love God, neighbor and self -greatest commandment Family. “Whoever
does the will of God is my family”. Brothers and sisters , parent , child. You who believe and
follow are in the family of God.
One Mother’s Day , I was talking to someone who said her grown children don’t talk to her but
they never talk to each other either. A tear or two was shed and they she said, I’m glad I have
my church family.
Many know the reality of broken relationships, it hurts. Hopefully, we provide comfort and
understanding in our faith communities.