Choosing the Twelve: Jesus Builds His Dream in Mark 3:13–35

Jonathan Rowe
Dec 6, 2024
2 min read

Black-and-white illustration of Jesus with a serene expression, framed by a radiant halo and a cross in the background. His long hair and beard are rendered in flowing, textured lines, while his robe drapes in soft folds across his shoulders. The intricate linework creates a sense of depth and reverence, giving the image a timeless, woodcut-like appearance. Trees frame both sides, adding a natural element to the sacred scene.

Mark 3.13-35

In this passage, Jesus goes up a mountainside to intentionally appoint twelve apostles, giving them authority to teach, heal, and drive out demons. As he builds his mission, opposition arises from religious leaders accusing him of being possessed, and even his family comes to take him home, thinking he’s out of his mind. Jesus boldly redefines family, saying, “Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”

What is attractive about God's Dream?

Jesus’ purposeful choice of the twelve apostles is compelling. He builds a team to carry out God’s Dream of hope and healing, showing that no one works alone in faith. His redefinition of family is equally beautiful, offering belonging to all who live according to God’s will. It’s a vision of community rooted not in biology or tradition but in shared purpose and faithfulness.

What is challenging about God's Dream?

The resistance Jesus faces from religious leaders and even his own family is deeply challenging. On one hand, it might be refreshing to think that even Jesus sometimes had strained family relationships. On the other, those strained relationships highlight the tension that arises when God’s Dream disrupts societal norms. Jesus’ redefinition of family is also difficult to grasp, as it asks us to rethink deeply held attachments. How willing are we to prioritise our glimpses of God’s Dream over familiar comforts or expectations?

What is transformative about God's Dream?

This passage transforms our understanding of belonging. Jesus creates a new kind of family, united not by blood but by a shared commitment to God’s vision. Advent is a season of waiting for God’s Dream to be fulfilled, and this passage reminds us that we are part of a broader family of faith, called to live with hope and work together for renewal and restoration.

Pray:

God of belonging, your Son called disciples to share in his mission of hope and healing. Unite us as part of your family, living in faith and love. May we reflect your dream of renewal in the world. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.