“Our most basic instinct is not for survival but for family. Most of us would give our own life for the survival of a family member, yet we lead our daily life too often as if we take our family for granted.” ~ Paul Pearshall
Today, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. It is a very important feast since it is rooted in the unconditional love of God itself. God loves us completely, entirely, and with all His being. He does not withhold His love for any reason whatsoever. That is a great comfort for us and is a great inspiration. Thank God for that because we need all the inspiration that we can get if we are to live as the Holy Family as well.
So often, people think that living as the Holy Family means living free from conflict or strife. That is not so. Living as the Holy Family means loving each other unconditionally and being there for one another no matter what.
Joseph loved Mary so much that he was willing to take her as his wife even when he found out that she was pregnant. He thought about divorcing her quietly; but, took Mary as his wife at the encouragement of an angel.
Joseph and Mary loved their child so much that they were willing to uproot their lives and flee to Egypt because they had heard that the king wanted Jesus dead. Imagine the strife of knowing that someone wanted to kill your child.
Joseph and Mary loved Jesus and panicked when he turned up missing as they traveled back to their home from Jerusalem. They found Him in the temple teaching the elders. While they were afraid, they realized that the days were nearing when they would have to let their Son go and give Him the space that He needed.
Mary’s unconditional love and support for Jesus was quite evident when she walked with Him on the road to Calvary and stood at the foot of His cross as He died. I cannot help but think that her love for Him gave Jesus strength to do the will of His Father.
These are just a few things that the Holy Family went through. Being a family is not always easy. Being a family can be very messy. But, being a family can bring great joy and comfort to all involved.
May the Holy Family bless your family this day with love and joy. Do not be afraid to love one another unconditionally.
FAITH ACTION: Pray for families, that they have the grace that they need to nurture, cherish, support, and respect one another in all circumstances.