Dec. 31, 2023

Source: www.ewtn.com

Today, the Church celebrates the Holy Family: Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Never was there such an extraordinary family. Pope St. John Paul II said,

 The Son of God prepared himself to carry out his redeeming mission, living a hardworking and hidden life in the holy house of Nazareth. Thus, united by his Incarnation with every man and woman, he was able to sanctify human families.

 In our families, we can and should imitate the virtues of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.

 First, in leading his family, Joseph always sought to be directed by God. He was a true father and husband who served Jesus and Mary. Later, when Jesus taught the Apostles about the need to serve rather than to be served, He did so, having found no contradiction in the life of Joseph.

The Blessed Virgin was loving and gentle. She also lived a life of meditation, often pondering the ways God was working. It might even be said that her pondering was a precursor to the Most Holy Rosary.

 The Child Jesus allowed Himself to be subject to Mary and Joseph. Though He was God – the Second Person of the Most Blessed Trinity – He was obedient to them (see Luke 2:51) and shared tenderly in family life.

 Finally, we can all learn from their love for each other. Within our own families, we can practice patience, courage, obedience, and love. When we’re feeling irritable, we can hold our tongue. When we’re needed, we can serve. When a loved one is acting badly, we can respond with charity.

 Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, help my family to be more like yours!

 Here are today's Mass readings:

 First reading: Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14 or Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3

 Psalm: 128:1-2, 3, 4-5 or 105:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9

 Second reading: Colossians 3:12-21 or Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19

 Gospel: Luke 2:22-40