“As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you. He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Luke 11:27, 28).
In this particular setting, Jesus elevates hearing and obeying the word of God above the blessing of having a Son like him.
A greater blessing: hearing and obeying the word of God.
This particular verse seems so out of place in the section about the healing of the mute person (Luke 11:14-28).
Jesus was interacting with the people around Him. He was always aware of what was happening around Him. He heard the joyful and appreciative remark of that mother. Her outburst was a blessing…a word of blessing…a recognition of Jesus’ wisdom.
He could have said, “Thank you! Praise the Lord!”
He used her blessing to affirm a greater blessing – a blessing that comes from hearing and obeying God’s Word.
Our task is to find out in what way these words of Jesus shed light on what happened before this woman’s affirmation.
Jesus was proclaiming the kingdom of God, by word and deeds (miracles, healings, signs and wonders). These were “performed” not by secret deals with the evil forces but by the very finger of God – unlimited power and authority…showcasing the presence of God’s kingdom right there, right then.
Being able to perform such acts of divine manifestation and having the wisdom to explain God’s Word and actions among the people was indeed a blessing. That particular mother was right.
But in God’s kingdom, however, a greater “blessing” awaited those who listened and obeyed the Word of God.
The message is clear: “Listen to God’s Word and obey!”