When I was the coordinator of our Parish Youth Ministry, I often reminded our members that one of our goals was to establish a “One Big Happy PYM Family”. One-because we want to foster unity among our members. Big-because we want to recruit many young members. Happy- because we want our members to find joy in serving the Lord. Family- because we want to treat each other as brothers and sisters in Christ. As much as possible, we do not limit our members to those who are well-mannered and upright. We believe that our mission is to draw many young people closer to God, regardless of who they really are and where they come from. What is important is an ear that is willing to listen, an eye that is willing to see the goodness in everything and a heart that is willing to be transformed.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus’ mother and brothers tried to see him while he was teaching a group of people gathered in someone’s home but were prevented by the crowd. When Jesus was told that they were outside, he announced that his family consists of those who hear the Word of God and do it. Today’s Gospel reminds us that Jesus considers everyone as part of his family because He acknowledges and accepts people with open arms, especially if we do not only hear the Word but also put it into action. According to the Letter of St. James, we should be doers of the Word and not only hearers. The Gospel challenges us to act according to the will of God and to always be mindful of His teachings and works. We must always be living witnesses of His unfailing love in this ever-changing world as we continue to strengthen our faith. It is typically easier to hear the Word of God than to act on it. We must always be mindful of seeing every person that we encounter as “a mother, brother, or sister.” To act on Jesus’ word calls each of us to love every person we encounter, even those individuals we may not like. Jesus’ friends are those who listen to and act on His Word.

By: Sem. Arjay A. Ligamzon

Today’s Gospel

Luke 8:19-21

The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him
but were unable to join him because of the crowd.
He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside
and they wish to see you.”
He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers
are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”