“For whoever does the will of God
is my brother and sister and mother.”
One of the changes that we have experienced with our new translation of the Roman Missal is in the words of institution in the Eucharistic Prayer. Where we use to say that the Blood of Christ was poured out for all, now we say that this life-saving gift is shed for many. Our Gospel today sheds light on the truth behind that change.
Jesus says, “Whoever”. He extends an invitation to be his “kin”, to be brother and sister and mother to him. This is no small thing. He even goes so far as to tell us that his Father is our Father. To whom is this invitation offered? He says, “Whoever”. It is extended to all, for all.
Jesus also tells us how to accept this invitation. It is “whoever does the will of God” that actually becomes his kin. It is not just a few who will become his brother or sister or mother. It is “for many” that he came to bring light and life. Among “the many” are all the “whoever’s” who do the will of God.
Offered for all, offered for many.
