Feast of the Holy Family
Sir 3:2-6 | Ps. 128: 1-5 | Col. 3:12-21 | Lk. 2:41-52
All three readings refer to respect and obedience. The first and second readings call us to be respectful of our parents and to take care of them when they are older and unable to care for themselves. They also call parents to be respectful of their children and to take good care of them. The Gospel tells the story about the Holy Family who go to Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover. The consternation of Mary and Joseph over the loss of Jesus and his response to them when they find him is quite evident. But Jesus returns with them to Nazareth and was obedient to them. Through this obedience, Jesus grows in wisdom age and grace.
We are called to live with respect and obedience for one another. The readings show us that by doing so, we will be blessed and so also will all with whom we come in contact. Take time to examine how respectful you are towards your parents, your children, your neighbors. Where might you be called to growth?