“Today, in the joyful atmosphere of Christmas, the Church, reliving with fresh wonder the mystery of Emmanuel, God-with-us, leads us to contemplate the Holy Family of Nazareth. From contemplation of this admirable model, the Church draws the values to hold up to the women and men of all times and all cultures” (St. John Paul II on his Angelus, December 27, 1998).
As we continue to celebrate the eight days of Christmas, we gather this weekend for The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph: the best family ever!
I soaked in words from St. John Paul II above to think about how important families are in our society. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph show us the best image of a family: a perfect Son, a perfect Mother, and an amazing Dad who adopted this Son.
At the same time, you probably already know that your family, or my family, is quite away from being “perfect” as a family! So, what do we do?
Nic Davidson gave us an excellent talk during our Advent Mission with Eucharistic Adoration, praise and worship music, confession, and silence. He spoke about his family, who, like all of our families, was chaotic, crazy, and not perfect. One of his best answers during these challenges was simple from God: “I want you!”
No matter what situation you face in your family, allow Jesus into your heart. Whether your family is going through exciting or hard moments, let Jesus be with you. If your parents have been divorced, let Jesus be with you! When your siblings are fighting, pause to allow Jesus to be with you! If death occurs, allow Jesus to be with you! If your family is having a great vacation, let Jesus be with you!
As Jesus, Mary, and Joseph show us the best situation of a family, seek their prayers, their compassion, and their love. This family showed the best love out of any family, which was more profound than emotions, but the truth.
Jesus, Mary, and Joseph pray for us and pray for our families in our society to allow Jesus to be in our hearts!
God Bless!
No comments:
Post a Comment