And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!

Matthew 12:49

I had just finished reading through the Prophets of the Old Testament, and even though I know they speak of many blessings along with telling of God’s judgement - I was a little weary.  I was kind of worn out.  The year 2020 had caught up with me… (These devotions are from our church Bulletin this time a year ago.)

Then I started reading in Matthew again and I got to this verse where Jesus stretched his hand to his disciples and said “Behold… my brethren!”  It’s the punctuation that grabbed me as much as anything!  How Jesus said this really got my attention!  And a few things hit me!

1. Many may reject Jesus as their King (Matthew portrays Jesus as the King of the Jews).  But by God’s grace I have not rejected Him!  The Lord Jesus Christ is my King!  And He is still the Almighty God and though He may be waiting for some things in His kingdom – He is my King!
2. He calls me… “brother!”  I don’t deserve that – but He does call me “brother!”

I just needed to be reminded… and Jesus knew on the morning I read this that I need the reminder!  I needed to be reminded that my God, Jesus, loves me!  So, may I just continue to do the work He has given me to do.  May we all just keep doing the work He has given us to do.  May we just be faithful!

And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said,

Behold my mother and my brethren!