As we consider the lives of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, let us grow in respect for each member of our own family
Reflections on the readings for the Feast of the Holy Family (December 30, 2018): SIR 3:2-6,12-14; PS 128:1-2,3,4-5; COL 3:12-21; LK 2:41-52
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.
Today we honor the Holy Family even as we take the time to think about our own family.
Throughout the Bible, God reveals the importance of home and family life. He wants His people of every generation to appreciate the responsibilities of both parents and children. “God sets a father in honor over his children; a mother’s authority He confirms over her sons. Whoever honors his father atones for sins.… When he prays he is heard; he stores up riches who reveres his mother” (Sirach 3:2-4). It is through human families that God creates us – His beloved children. mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, all populate His world and we are not interchangeable, rather, we are distinctive. Naturally, it’s easy to look at Jesus, Mary and Joseph and say, of course they are different: Jesus is the Son of God; His mother Mary is a virgin; Joseph is their God-given protector. But we must recognize and respect the individuality of each family member of each family.
Every one of us needs to consider what we have in common and what we do not. Most of all, we need to acknowledge that, as God’s children, we are all brothers and sisters and united in love and service to Almighty God. Let us ask the Holy Family to help us care for those near and dear to us and to acknowledge the dignity of every single person on the face of the earth.
Suggested missionary action: We can resolve to spend more time with our family and to use that time to love and support each other as individuals and as a family unit. We can also offer practical help and encouragement to other families who have particular problems or needs.
