Today's Gospel reading stresses the importance of hearing the Word of God in the proper manner. It goes beyond the meaning of 'family' for it emphasises that the true family of Jesus are those who listen to the Word and do the will of God. The ideal listeners of the Word of God are those: 'who, hearing the Word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruits with patience' (Lk.8:15). In Lk.8:21, Luke shows that Jesus' blood relatives are also his closest kin at the level of discipleship.

In short, it refers to the proclamation of the Word and acceptance with generosity for service. Do we see ourselves belonging to this category of discipleship? Do we live the Word of God every day of our lives - both in words and actions? Do we "Walk the talk'. This indeed calls for self- examination in our relationship with Jesus.

In the first reading, the temple was rebuilt with the help of the Persian kings. It was also spurred by the preaching of Haggai and Zechariah and under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Joshua, who led the effort to begin the rebuilding of the Temple. (Hag 1:12 - 15).

The temple was completed almost 70 years after its destruction. The leaders of those who returned from exile were responsible for completing the temple. They put in their efforts for the rebuilding of the temple.This reiterates what the Gospel speaks about the importance of putting words into action.