A proper relationship with Jesus is important; at least, it is important to Jesus. First, He distinguishes between a physical heratige and spiritual heratige by stating that blood relationship is not what counts; rather, love, dedication, and an obedient faith to the heavenly Father (cf. Romans; Galatians; 1 John).
Second, the spiritual relationship with Jesus is not just based on a "blind" following and meaningless repitition. (Jesus doesn't want a "blind faith"). He pointed to His disciples. A disciple is a follower. A learner in the true sense. They are those who choose to follow by free will. They continue to learn, grow, and produce fruit of righteousness.
A person of relationship with Jesus (and God) are those who "does the will of my (Jesus') Father in heaven" (Matthew 12:50). Other passages in Scripture teach that this obedience is not one that attempts to earn their salvation (Romans; Galatians). It is a faith that lives a life worthy of the gospel of Christ; i.e., because one desires to wholeheartedly live for Him because of His love that He has already given.
Are you in a relationship with God?
The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves