Serving God, Looking After Each Other
Reflections on the readings for The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph: SIR 3:2-6, 12-14, or GN 15:1-6, 21:1-3; PS 128:1-2, 3, 4-5, or PS 105:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9; COL 3:12-21, or COL 3:12-17, or HEB 11:8, 11-12, 17-19; LK 2:22-40, or LK 2:22, 39-40
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
On this Holy Family Sunday we pause to consider Jesus, Mary and Joseph after the glory of Christmas. We see them as part of their religious community, fulfilling their laws and traditions at the Jerusalem temple. We hear Jesus acknowledged and proclaimed as the Messiah. But, just as importantly, we watch them go off to live quiet lives, serving God and looking after each other. “When they had fulfilled all the prescription of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The Child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon Him” (Luke 2:39-40).
Let us turn to the Holy Family as the best example for a life of virtue, forgiveness, and love within our home. But we do not have to worry about reaching such extraordinary heights for us to turn our homes into havens of peace and faith.
Suggested missionary action: We can thoughtfully celebrate the end of this year by offering a World Mission Rosary for the Church’s missions, for all those who share the faith, and for those who receive the Good News.
