Holy Family
I was truly comforted at this refection in the We Celebrate Worship Resource at mass this last week for the feast of the Holy Family.
<<The reading from Sirach reflects the patriarchal culture of his day. Father really was expected to "know best." Mother only gets two brief nods. Still, the call for children to honor and respect their parents, especially as they age, remains relevant. Of course, one can also say that parents should be worthy of such respect by the lives they lead. The Letter to the Corinthians offers a list of the virtues that make for a healthy and holy family life, whatever form the family may take: "heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another," with love holding all these other virtues together. The motivation is rooted in our faith: this is how the Lord is with us. Let the peace of Christ control our hearts and the word of Christ dwell in our minds. The story that Luke alone records and the only one about Jesus as a "tween" -reminds us that he grew into his identity as one who would speak and act with authority, having matured in wisdom, age, and favor before God and humans. His family was the place where this happened.
Using the list above from Saint Paul, how can your family become a more holy family this coming year?>>
At last! Sympathy for and an acknowledgement of the contemporary youths lack of respect of authority. Addressed to those in the pews to enlighten those in position of authority the necessary atmosphere that fosters such respect. I found myself instinctively feeling safe as I imagined living in this family atmosphere and guidelines mentioned for a healthy and holy family. As it rightly acknowledges that, as an example and model for all of us, we could "mature(d) in wisdom, age, and favor before God and humans" in such an atmosphere How natural and wholesome affectivities could blossom and with grace, be the grounds for motivation towards general happiness which inspires holiness just like the Martin family of St.Therese (Martin) of Liseux show us.
"heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another,"
We can assume also we love ourselves in this manner as well because God's command is that we love our neighbor as ourselves. Heaven would definitely increase on earth and increase it's much needed palpable Presence as we do this! All for Your Glory Father, may it be done! Amen!
"Do you think I have abandoned you? No, never, My tiny rose. Ready to bloom. I am here by your side ready to bring down My Merciful Wrath. FOR THIS “DAY” IN TIME IS OVER. DARKNESS IS DEFEATED. Look to the skies for your final salvation. The sign I promised is coming. Is come. Soon. Remember My Words, daughter. Soon. " 10/23/96
*inspired by Jesus Words to St. Faustina re: His Coming)