Jesus and Family Values

https://www.pexels.com/photo/standing-family-near-fireplace-1648387/

New York Yearly Meeting publishes the following advice:
Remembering the tenderness of Jesus for children, we recommend that parents and those who have the important charge of educating youth exercise a loving and watchful care over them. Meetings are urged to help parents and children share religious experiences at home and in the meeting for worship and to give them an understanding of the principles and practices of Friends.
 
So, according to NYYM, the family is of paramount importance to Friends. The family is the means by which Quakerism is passed on to children; and, by implication, the family is the basis of a better society based on “the principles and practices of Friends. Also, by implication, Jesus is seen as a promoter of these family, Quaker values.

But was the historical Jesus a defender of family values? After all, Jesus is reputed to have said, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26, NIV)

Fact is, Jesus expected the imminent coming of a supernatural Kingdom of God which would supplant the family. Thus, the ties of father and mother with children were not of ultimate importance. Jesus even had conflicts with his own family, who apparently thought his ministry was evidence of insanity. Once, when his family was gathered outside a crowded house, wanting to come in to see him, Jesus remarked, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?”  ‘Pointing to his disciples, he said,’ “Here are my mother and my brothers.  For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” (Matthew 12:48-50, NIV)

It's a well-known fact that many Quaker social activists place social reform ahead of time and effort spent with their own family. Is this not the true Quaker way, a way advocated by Jesus himself?

Maybe not. At least it may not be the Quaker way. After all, Friends do not usually expect the imminent appearance of a supernatural Kingdom of God. Failing this belief, believing rather that society is going to persist for the foreseeable future, is it not incumbent for Friends to foster a strong family? I think that this is a matter of debate among us. Perhaps some are called to be social activists who put family in second place, and others are called to concentrate on family values. I think this may be the solution to the problem.

~ Richard Russell