Sunday
in the Octave of Christmas - The Holy Family
Sunday, 26 December 1999
Theme: The holy family of God.
The book of Ecclesiasticus 3:26,
1214
Even the little things of family life are recognised
by the Lord. Long life to those who honour father, or set mother at ease.
Care for elderly parents, as age and failing health overtake them, shall not
be forgotten.
Letter of Paul to the Colossians
3:1221
By choosing this second reading for the feast, the
Church may be leading us to understand that just as parents are the first
teachers of faith, so the Christian home is where we learn to put on
Christ, to experience forgiveness, to forgive, to learn compassion,
kindness, gentleness and patience. The family is where the Christian gospel
values are first experienced and the learning for life begins. Yet parents
must remain open to the needs of their children, and always listen well so
as not to drive them to resentment.
Gospel according to Luke 2:22 40
To fulfill the requirements of Jewish law, Mary and
Joseph make an offering in the Temple. Here the elderly Simeon, and Anna,
who represent the faithful waiting for the coming Messiah, are thrilled to
hold the child in their arms. Parents can offer their children to the Lord,
at Baptism, and whenever they take their place at the Eucharist. Faithful
grandparents have an important role to play, not least in giving spiritual
support for the growing family.