Sunday, 12/29/13
A picture of Mary, Joseph and Jesus
together in the stable turns our thoughts to family life. We call this day the
Feast of the Holy Family, but on this day, going beyond Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
we thank God for what wonderful things our families can be.
The First Reading from the Book of
Sirach supplies us with a grand list of benefits that come to those who are
good family persons. They atone for their sins, and are helped at avoiding
sins. When they pray they are heard. They store up riches in heaven. They, in
their turn, will be gladdened by others. They will live long lives.
Those rewards are particularly
meant for young people. But what family life can old people have? Well, instead
of grieving over being neglected, they must get out of their selves. They must
restore family cheer to others who are alone.
Once when someone standing nearby
told Jesus that members of his family were waiting to see him, Jesus told them
that his family was very large. He said it included all men and women, old and
young, who attempt to live according to God’s law.
Look around you. All the people you
see are God’s children. He loves this one, that one, and that one too. He
appreciates it no end when you become a brother or sister to any lonely
ones who are his children.
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