Afternoon Thoughts-A Short Meditation on the Holy Family:

As much as Joseph and Mary are the parents of Jesus, the Son of God,

they were also ordinary people who followed traditional customs and

complied with the laws of their nation. They were perhaps surprised

by the attention given by Simeon and Anna to Jesus and they were

most probably very anxious about the importance of their son in the

future.

Nevertheless, they raised Jesus as any normal parents would raise

their son. They taught him and disciplined him. Jesus probably had

to do daily chores and learn basic education like any other boy and

girl living in Nazareth. Joseph probably had to work hard for a

living and Mary did her share of the housework.

Perhaps it is this ordinary life Joseph, Mary, and Jesus led that

make them a role model for any modern Christian family. Even though

they led a typical family life, they also led a life surrounded by

love, responsibility and caring for each other.

We have perhaps read and heard of the difficulties and challenges of

the family in the 21st century. Maybe we have experienced these

difficulties ourselves. Perhaps we worry how our children will grow

up or how we can continue providing for their basic needs and

education. But if we remember Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and their

commitment to each other despite all their difficulties, we can draw

from this and realize that our families too can weather and hurdle

any challenge or obstacle. It takes responsibility, commitment, and

most of all – love.

PRAYER

“Lord, may I never cease to hope in you and to trust in your

promises. Inflame my zeal for your kingdom and increase my love for

prayer, that I may never cease to give you praise and worship”. Amen. (Catholic Exchange)