Here’s a Story

“Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” Colossians 3:19-21 New International Version

There are several instances of blended families in the bible: Woman at the Well,  Joseph and his half-brothers, Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz, King David and his children, and Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar. Let’s focus on Jesus’ earthly family relationship.

Two Scripture give us information about the siblings of Jesus.  The book of Matthew, chapter 13, says, “Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. ‘Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?’ they asked. ‘Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Aren’t all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?” We are never told exactly how many siblings Jesus had, but the book of Mark, chapter 6, indicates there had to have been at least six: at least four brothers, named; and two sisters, unnamed.

One can only imagine the relationship they might have had. Chasing each other, skipping rocks in the river, chores, they may have even witnessed the gifts Jesus had, keeping it in the family. Plenty of talks and laughter around the dinner table, and then at the end of the day mother Mary tucking them all in bed, with a kiss for each of them.  As a child, Jesus had the freedom to do just that, be a kid.

But those kid days, were not meant to last. While visiting the temple in Jerusalem at the age of twelve, Jesus became separated from his parents and was left behind. When they returned to Jerusalem three days later, his worried parents, found him in the Temple listening to the teachers and amazing those around him with his understanding.  His purpose clearer every day to his parents no doubt. No ordinary boy, his mission and calling were coming for him.

He was the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, The Good Shepherd, and Savior of the world. He was born into this world with one mission. To save it. Isaiah, chapter 53, foretold this purpose, it reads: “But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities. The chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes we are healed.”

I believe that both Joseph and Mary, wanted Him to be a kid as long as possible, but they also knew that Jesus higher calling would not be denied, and where they left off, God would take over. When I think of the term blended families, like all family units, It takes lots of love, patience, humility, teamwork, communication, dedication, respect, and trust.

Remember friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.