As we celebrate the Holy Family which consists of Saint Joseph, The Virgin Mary, and the child Jesus, we respect and love this example of love given to us from our God above. If we understand the bond which holds this family together, then we could parallel it to our own families. Through learning from a model, which God gave us freely, we could become better and stronger as individuals and in consequence, become better fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters.
Mary accepted her role to be the mother of Jesus immediately. She was obedient to God through the request by the angel Gabriel. Joseph, through a dream, had faith in his role as the earthly father of Christ. Jesus, the King and Saviour of the world believed in the will of God and took His role as being the Lamb of God, who will take away the sins of the world.
What did these three members of the Holy Family have in common?
Obedience, faith, and love for God overflowed.
How could we implement these traits in our families?
We could listen to one another, really listen as we journey together in Synodality. Synodality is opening our hearts and minds to the messages others relate to us. We could take the time to understand the wants, likes, fears and desires of our own family members. We could spend quality time with one another. Let us put down the cell phones and really be there in body, mind, and spirit. Let us be present. May we be obedient to God by following His Ten Commandments, especially the Greatest two: to love God with our whole mind, body, and soul and to love others as God loves us.
May we have faith in knowing that Jesus is the Saviour of the world and that He is the Son of God. Do not be afraid to love God, to speak of Him to others and to share the Word of God and His Commandments. Do not worry about tomorrow, for if we truly believe that Jesus is our Lord and Saviour, then everything will always be okay.
Remember you are a member of Jesus’ family, now and forever.
Merry Christmas.
Therese Chung – Coordinator of the OLPH Synod Team