Homily of Holy Family
1 Samuel 1:20-22,24-28, 1 John 3:1-2,21-24, Luke 2:41-52
The Feast of the Holy Family celebrates Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as the perfect model of love, faith, and unity in family life. Observed on the Sunday after Christmas, it highlights the sanctity of family and the virtues of obedience, humility, and mutual care. The Holy Family faced challenges like exile and poverty yet remained faithful to God’s will. This feast calls us to emulate their example, by fostering holiness, love, and devotion within our own families.
However, the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) defines marriage as a covenantal union established by God between a man and a woman. This partnership is ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of children. Marriage is a sacrament when entered into by baptized individuals, signifying Christ’s union with the Church (CCC 1601).
The above definition highlights three key aspects: the good of the spouses, the procreation, and the education of children. The fruit of spousal love is children, who must be nurtured and guided in the ways of the Lord. While spouses strive to make life comfortable for one another, they must also prioritise their children’s well-being. Achieving this balance can be challenging, as each spouse brings unique preferences and perspectives, requiring mutual understanding and cooperation to fulfill their shared responsibilities.
Moreover, while children are expected to obey their parents, they should also be guided in discerning their life vocations. Jesus exemplified this by understanding and embracing the purpose for which he was born without hesitation. His disappearance on the journey from Jerusalem caused great concern for Mary and Joseph. However, when they finally found him, they had no choice but to approach the situation with patience and understanding. When they confronted him, his response revealed his deep awareness of his divine mission,
“Why were you looking for me?’ he replied. ‘Did you not know that I must be busy with my father’s affairs?’ But they did not understand what he meant, He then went down with them and came to Nazareth and lived under their authority. His mother stored all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom, in stature, and in favour with God and men.”
Even in their bewilderment, Mary and Joseph remained calm, with Mary treasuring the experience in her heart. Hence, we must not confine our children’s lives to rigid expectations. As long as they steer clear of unlawful activities, they should be encouraged to explore paths that resonate with their interests and talents. Jesus was found in the temple, engaging in discussions that surprised many, demonstrating the importance of allowing children the freedom to pursue meaningful endeavours.
More so, as parents, we are called to understand the unique journey of each family member, fostering mutual love and care to support one another’s growth. This principle extends to our relationship with our spouse. Marriage is a partnership rooted in equality and respect—no one is meant to be a servant or slave to the other. Together, we are called to build a nurturing environment where every member of the family can thrive.
May our homes always be filled with the warmth of God’s love. Amen.
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