GOD VERSUS FAMILY
Finding Harmony: Family, Discipleship, and God’s Love
The teachings of Jesus invite us to reflect on our priorities and relationships, especially within the context of family and discipleship. As Catholics, we recognize the significance of both family bonds and our connection with God.
The Primacy of God’s Love
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus delivers a powerful message: “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me” (Mt 10:37). While this may sound stern, it emphasizes the centrality of our relationship with God. The Catechism of the Catholic Church echoes this sentiment, stating that the first commandment calls us to believe in God, place our hope in Him, and love Him above all else (CCC 2134).
The Book of Exodus reinforces this principle: “I, the Lord, am your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that place of slavery. You shall not have other gods before me” (Ex 20:2-3). Here, God establishes His rightful place in our lives, surpassing even our familial ties.
Balancing Faith and Family
Jesus never intended to diminish the importance of honoring parents or loving children. He criticized those who neglected their families under the guise of religious devotion. For instance, some would declare their resources “qorban” (dedicated to God), thereby avoiding their duty to support their parents (Mk 7:11-12). Jesus valued both devotion to God and fulfilling family responsibilities.
However, when conflicts arise between faith and familial expectations, Jesus makes it clear that faithfulness to God must prevail. The prophet Micah’s words resonate: “Do not trust in a friend, do not rely on a companion; guard the words of your mouth” (Mi 7:5).
God’s Primacy and Spiritual Bonds
The Catholic Church recognizes family as a fundamental unit of society. Yet, our ultimate allegiance lies with God. Pope Francis, in his apostolic exhortation ‘Amoris Laetitia,’ reminds us that families continually grow and mature in their ability to love (AL 325). This growth involves acknowledging God’s primacy in our lives.
Jesus expands our understanding of family beyond blood relations. When asked about His mother and brothers, He responds: “Who are my mother and my brothers?… Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother” (Mk 3:33-35). Spiritual bonds formed in faith can be as strong as—or even stronger than – biological ties.
REFLECTION
As Christians, we navigate the tension between love for family and love for God. It doesn’t mean neglecting our familial duties; rather, we integrate them with our faith. Wisdom and discernment guide us. Our loyalty lies with God, and our relationships flourish when centered on Him.
In conclusion, Jesus’ teachings remind us that our relationship with God serves as the foundation for all other connections. As Christians, we nurture our families while keeping God at the core. May we love deeply, honor our parents, care for our children, and remain faithful to our loving God.