THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH (Feast)
Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3 Hebrews 11:8.11-12.17-19 Luke2:22-40
Theme: The Power of Love
Today the church celebrates the feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. The Holy family stands as a model for every other family to follow and emulate. As a family of God’s people, we have a lot to emulate in the holy family, if we truly want to live a life that is pleasing to God. It is a family that has something to teach every member of a family. We have a lot to learn as fathers, mothers, or children. Today’s celebration presents us the opportunity to re-evaluate our family lives in relation to that of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. As many of us that are willing to make this journey of faith today, will experience the blessings and presence of God in our families.
The strong bond of love that exists within the Holy Family helped them to build a strong faith in love that continued to bind them together and strengthen them in times of difficulty. This is one of the attributes of the Holy Family that we need to emulate in our different families. It is a source of great strength in times challenges and the storms of life. The bond of love and unity will go a long way to grow the faith and union of any family that practices it. The saying that ‘a family that prays together stays together’; is very true and a necessity if we truly want to emulate the Holy Family in our individual families.
In the first reading from the Book of Genesis, we see Abram presenting a concern to God, and with the faith of Abraham God blessed him and his wife Sarah and granted his heart desire. The faith of Abraham and his family is also seen in the letter to the Hebrews. He listened to the Word of God and did as he was directed. A sign of trust and great faith in God! This bond of love and unity will take a family to greater heights, because it helps to grow peace, joy and happiness; both in good and in bad times. This is an attribute that is seen in the Holy Family. Introduce it into your own family if it is not there already.
Every member of the family has a role to play towards achieving this union that is seen in the Holy Family. The foundation should be built on love of God and neighbours. When this is present, it is easier to build the type of union that will always strengthen and keep the family always going.
Joseph performed his role as a father by taking care and protecting Mary and Jesus, as seen in the flight to Egypt. As a mother, Mary also performed her role as both a wife and a mother. Lastly, Jesus lived under the guidance of Joseph and Mary, not minding the fact that he was God. There was love and mutual respect for each member of the Holy Family. There was no sign of dictatorship. They were rather guided by understanding and love. Dearly beloved in Christ, let love rule in your life and families and God will bless all your efforts.
We pray that God will grant us the grace to emulate the Holy Family in our families, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you!