Jesus loved his mother. However, the fact that she was his mother did not make her special simply because of their biological attachment. Go back to Luke 1:26-38 and notice Mary’s bottom-line decision recorded there. 

“See, I am the Lord’s servant,” said Mary. 
“May it happen to me as you have said.” 
Then the angel left her.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭38‬ ‭CSB‬‬

Yes, I see it all now:
I’m the Lord’s maid, ready to serve.
Let it be with me
just as you say.
(The Message)

Rather than biology, it was Mary’s obedience, her willing acceptance of the offered assignment, that set her apart. Here is the ultimate handmaid’s tale. It is the same for Mary as it is for Peter. It is the same for Pharisees, and Sadducees, and the You’s and Me’s of the world. 

Hearing God’s good news and his perfect plan for our lives requires a decision. We get to choose whether we do what he says. The blessed life, the most-blessed life, is the life that says Yes to whatever God asks. 

Hearing and obeying God is the key that unlocks all the goodness God has built into this universe and all eternity. 

Mary knew this. Peter learned this. We get to join them on the journey.

It’s important to note that Jesus did not devalue his mother or brothers in the verses above. Instead, he elevated everyone, including you and me, who hear God’s instructions and do what he says. Mary did that. Peter learned to do that. You and I can learn that as well. Some might call it the Secret of Life. Jesus called it Good News. 

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I will live the open secret of the Good News.

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Our Father, give me ears to hear what you are saying to me today. Give me a willing and obedient heart to unlock the treasures of all your goodness. Amen.