We're all related.

Lectionary: 396
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Apollinaris

"Here are my mother and my brothers.
For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father
is my brother, and sister, and mother."
Family...can't live with them, can't live without them! Jesus reminds us today that life is about relationship. We are all connected to one another and as such have the responsibility to be in relationship with each other. As much as we might like to, we can't isolate ourselves from our families and our community.
One more thing: My daughter had a friend over tonight for a sleep over. The friend started the evening out by saying how much she 'hates' her brother and sister. I explained to her that in our family, we choose to love one another and try to show that love to each other every day. Does that mean we have a perfect family? No. But it means we are committed to staying in relationship with one another. 
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for the family that you have given me, both biological and social. Bless my family with your grace and help us all to love one another as you do. In your name I pray, Amen. St. Apollinaris, pray for me.