The Holy Family: A Model of Love, Unity, and Forgiveness

Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph: December 29, 2024

Readings: Sirach 3:2–6, 12–14; Psalm 128:1–5; Colossians 3:12–21; Luke 2:41–52

Pope Francis says that family is “where we learn to live with others despite our differences and to belong to one another.” As we celebrate the feast of the Holy Family, our first thoughts go to the blessed family of Nazareth: Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. This day is dedicated to the family in our liturgical calendar. Our families are called to be as holy as the family of the Nazareth. We are called to draw inspiration from this family of love, compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another.

1. Life as Pilgrimage of Faith

The passage of Luke 2:41–52 recounts a profound moment in the life of Jesus and His family, offering us a glimpse into the divine mystery of His identity and mission. It is the only Gospel account of Jesus' youth, highlighting His wisdom and the tension between His earthly life and divine calling. Often we become restless and angry when our children grow and choose the path which may not be our liking. We might be unconsciouly trying to control them or we might be thinking that they are not capable of choosing their career path.

The journey of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus to Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover reminds us of the importance of pilgrimage in the spiritual life. Pilgrimages are outward journeys that mirror our inward search for God. Mary and Joseph’s commitment to this practice shows their deep faith and obedience to the traditions of their faith community.

2. In search of Jesus

As a young boy Jesus misses out in the rush of the crowd and the overwhelmingly enormous sea of people in Jerusalem. The anguish of Mary and Joseph of not finding Jesus in their company is unexplainable. We can imagine their fear and anxiety, uncertainty and doubt. Their three days of search for the young lad finally results in finding him in the temple. 

Jesus’ response to His parents, “Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” reveals His deep awareness of His divine identity and mission. Instead of anger and frustration, both Mary and Joseph bring the boy back home. Often we live in tension in our families when members develop their own thinking whcih may not be in synchrony with others. As a result a lot of misunderstanding causes conflicts. That's why listening to each member is very essential in our families. 

3. Complete and definite trust in God

Mary’s reaction at the whole episode of finding Jesus in the temple is one of wonder and contemplation. She does not fully understand but treasures these moments in her heart. Her example teaches us to hold the mysteries of our faith with humility and trust, even when clarity eludes us. In the words of Pope Francis in family “we remain steadfast in our intention to respect others, to heal wounds, to build bridges, to strengthen relationships and to ‘bear one an­other’s burdens.”

On this day of the feast of Holy Family, it's a reminder that the journey of faith is dynamic, often marked by moments of loss, discovery, and profound insight. Like Mary and Joseph, we are called to persevere in our pilgrimage of faith, always seeking, always pondering, and always trusting in the God who calls us to deeper communion with Him. As a family we must work out ways and means to stregnthen our bond with one another while growing closer in our relationship with God. May we, too, find Jesus in the temple of our hearts, growing in wisdom, favour, and love as we walk with Him.

Questions for self-reflection

1. Do we persist in seeking Jesus when we feel His absence in our lives?
2. What does it mean to me when I say "family"?
3. Are we attentive to the call of God in our lives?

Prayer Based on Psalm 128

Heavenly Father,

We give You thanks for the gift of family, modeled after the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Blessed are those who walk in Your ways, for You promise peace, prosperity, and joy to all who fear You and honor Your name. Grant that our homes may be places of love, unity, and faith. May we delight in the fruit of our labour, and may Your blessings surround our families. Strengthen us to grow in holiness, always seeking to reflect Your love to one another.

As we celebrate the feast of the Holy Family, guide us to follow their example of obedience, humility, and trust in You. Bless us with Your peace all the days of our lives, that we may one day share in Your eternal joy. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name,  Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

December 27, 2024