Friends, today is the first Sunday of Christmas. It is a Sunday dedicated to the Holy Family of Nazareth. That is, the family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. It is the model of every true Christian Family. The Feast of the Holy Family reminds us that Jesus lived in a real family. He had a mother and a father who cared for Him and protected Him. Mary and Joseph did not have easy lives, but they trusted God and followed His plan. Their home was simple, but it was full of love. This feast helps us think about our own families. Every home has struggles. But like the Holy Family, we are called to listen to God and care for each other with patience. Love grows in quiet moments, hard choices, and daily kindness. The readings for the Feast of the Holy Family Year A show how God works through family life. They speak about honoring parents, caring for others, and choosing peace. These small acts shape a strong and faithful home. This day is not only about Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. It is about how we can live with love and trust in our families today. God is with us in family life, no matter how ordinary it may seem.
Friends, the first reading of today from the book of Sirach emphasizes honoring parents. To honor someone means to desire their good, even when relationships are difficult. Family life is often complicated. It is possible to honor a parent or sibling without ignoring past hurts. Honoring does not mean accepting harmful behavior. It means seeking what is best for them while maintaining healthy boundaries. Respect within families is about recognizing each person’s dignity. This includes those who have hurt us. We can pray for them and wish them well, even if we need to keep a distance for our own well-being. Honoring them is about our own integrity, not necessarily about repairing broken relationships. It allows us to choose love without denying the truth of our pain. Brothers and sisters, honoring does not always mean staying in one place or accepting everything as it is. Sometimes it requires courage and change to protect those we love. Families are not perfect. There are misunderstandings and conflicts. But by honoring each other, even in imperfect situations, we follow the example of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Their trust in God and commitment to each other show us how to live faithfully within the realities of family life.
Friends, 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.” These virtues are essential for building harmony within families. Compassion means being sensitive to each other’s struggles. It means listening and offering support without judgment. Kindness is about choosing to be gentle in words and actions, even when conflicts arise. Patience is crucial in family life. People make mistakes, and growth takes time. Patience allows us to accept each other’s limitations while encouraging positive change. It prevents us from reacting harshly or giving up on each other. By practicing patience, we mirror Christ’s love and mercy. Brothers and sisters, Joseph shows great patience and understanding. He responds to God’s message without anger or frustration. He accepts his role with humility, protecting Mary and Jesus even when the path is uncertain. His patience and kindness preserve peace within his family.
Friends, in the Gospel of today, Joseph demonstrates deep trust in God. When warned in a dream, he immediately takes action to protect Mary and Jesus. He does not hesitate or question God’s plan. He trusts that God’s guidance will lead his family to safety. This faith is the foundation of his role as a husband and father. Trusting God’s guidance is not always easy. It often involves stepping into the unknown, just as Joseph did when he fled to Egypt. It means letting go of our own plans and allowing God to lead. This requires courage and humility. It challenges us to believe that God’s ways are better than our own. The Feast of the Holy Family reminds us that God is always present in our lives, even when we cannot see the full picture. Like Joseph, we are called to listen and respond to God’s call with faith. This trust builds strong families rooted in God’s love and wisdom. The Lord be with you …may the Almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a joyful Christmas season.
