Feast of the Holy Family

12-27-2020Weekly ReflectionFr. Arul Doss

Dear Brothers and Sisters.

I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year-2021. Sincerely I am thanking you all for your wishes, prayers and Christmas Cards in view of Christmas.

This first Sunday of Christmas is dedicated to the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. It is the model of every true Christian Family. It is the nucleus of the human society and the place where life and learning begin. The importance of today’s celebration both in the life of the Church and our society cannot be underestimated.

First, it is meant to remind us of the specific and important role of the family as a sacred institution. That is, that the sustenance and subsistence of our society depends on the continuous existence of the family. Second, this celebration reminds us of the right constitution of a family. That is, the right and naturally accepted union of a father, mother and their children.

The first reading of this Sunday explicitly outlines the three different components of a family: father, mother and children. It equally outlines the position of each member in relation to one another: “The Lord honors the father in his children; a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.” Each is important and unique in their positions. Importantly, the Sirach emphasized the role of children towards their parents. This role centers on honor and obedience to one’s parents.

In today’s second reading, Paul reminds us of the Christian virtues that are very important to sustain our families. Each member of the family must strive to acquire them. These include: compassion, kindness, patience, and forgiveness towards every member of our family. Most importantly, Paul says: “Put on love and let the peace of Christ control your hearts.”

In addition to the virtues that Paul enumerated above, today’s gospel presents us with very important characteristics of a family. That is prayer and unity of purpose. Together, Mary and Joseph took their son Jesus to the temple to be consecrated. So, they acted and prayed together for the good of their family.
When Herod threatened their baby, they decided together in prayers to flee to Egypt. This is a very important virtue to emulate from them today as we celebrate. This is especially in our world where individualism has done a great harm to our family relations. Prayer and unity sustain and help our families. This is especially, during difficult moments in life. This is true of the saying that “united we stand, divide we fall.” Therefore, let us pray, Jesus, Mary and Joseph: make our hearts like unto yours.
Again, I wish you all a Joy-filled New year-2021. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. May our Mother Mary protect you all through her powerful intercessions in this coming new year.

In Christ Jesus,
Fr. Doss

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