Friends, today we are celebrating the first Sunday of Christmas, Our Mother Church invites us to celebrate the Holy Family of Nazareth; Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. We live in a time when the family institution is under a severe threat. As an institution that is the nucleus of every human society, the family has suffered dramatically in our time. Consequently, society at large is suffering too. So, the church presents us with the ideal model of what a family should be. All the readings of this Sunday have carefully selected instructions about an ideal family and the duties of each member to maintain the sanctity of the family. By respecting our parents, fostering love and unity, and seeking our roles in God’s plan, we can build strong, faithful families. These reflections guide us in living out these virtues every day, helping us grow closer to God and each other. Lord, help us to honor and respect our parents. Guide us to love and unite our families.
Friends, the first reading of today, speaks of the need for children to be responsible and obedient to their parents; “He who honors his mother is like someone amassing a fortune. Whoever respects his father will be happy with children of his own.” In other words, in an ideal family, it is the role of children to make their parents happy. When they do, definitely a blessing follows them as Paul admonishes in Eph 6, 1-2. Brothers and sisters, respecting our parents means valuing their wisdom and guidance. It helps build a strong family foundation. Jesus set an example of obedience to His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph. In Luke 2:51, Jesus is shown returning to Nazareth and being obedient to them. This act of obedience highlights the importance of understanding and respecting our parents’ role in our lives. It builds trust and mutual respect within the family. When we respect our parents, we follow God’s commandments and create a loving home environment. This respect helps us learn patience, kindness, and humility. The Feast of the Holy Family reminds us that honoring our parents is a vital part of living a holy and fulfilling life. By following Jesus’ example, we strengthen our families and grow closer to God.
Friends, in the second reading of today, Paul outlined the qualities and virtues of an ideal Christian family; “Clothed yourselves in sincere compassion, kindness and humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with one another; forgive each other as soon as a quarrel begins.” In a Christian family, each member knows his duty and responsibility. Brothers and sisters, Love is what holds a family together and fosters unity. It helps family members support each other through good times and bad. In a loving family, each member feels valued and understood. This love creates a strong sense of unity and belonging. It helps families overcome difficulties and grow stronger together. By focusing on love, we can create a peaceful and joyful home. Love helps us forgive and move past conflicts. It encourages us to be patient and kind. Brothers and sisters, the Feast of the Holy Family, reminds us that love is the foundation of a happy and united family. Following this example, we can build a strong family that reflects God’s love for the world.
Friends, in today’s gospel, Luke informs us of how the parents of Jesus played their role in his upbringing. They continued to accompany him in love until he was mature enough to take care of himself. They provided for his needs and made sure that they brought him up in the faith. They did this by presenting him to God at the appropriate time. When they thought he was lost, they looked for him. Brothers and sisters, today’s gospel also reminds us that problems and obstacles are inevitable in a family. However, if the members remain united and courageous, they will overcome them all.
Friends, Joseph played his part very well. He is a role model for all fathers. He protected and provided for both the mother and the child. Mary also played her role very well by giving much maternal love that their son needed as he grew up. On his part, Jesus was not disobedient or problematic. He understood the difficulties that his family faced. Therefore, a Christian family is a family modeled after the Holy Family of Nazareth. As ordained by God the Creator, a Christian family consists of the father, the mother, and children as gifts from God. It is a family that sticks and prays and works together in harmony. It is a family that accords respect and dignity to each member. An ideal family must have love, peace, and unity of purpose. This is the model of the family that the church presents to us and the entire world today. So, let us implore the Holy family to help us always live like them; Jesus, Mary, and Joseph; pray for our families. The Lord be with you …. May the almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Have a Joyful Celebration of the First Sunday of Christmas Year C
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By: Fr. Ben Chola mccj
Aka Omuntu Wa Bantu
