Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph – A

The first reading focuses on the father and the mother, the parents, and the respect, honor, and love with which they are to be esteemed. Now, I realize that not every mother and father is perfect. In fact, none of them are—just as none of us are perfect, their sons and daughters included. The reason for this reading is to keep us humble.

When our parents make mistakes or are deficient in some way—whether in how they express themselves or in the limitations that come with old age, when memory begins to fail—the Word of God speaks clearly: “My son, take care of your father when he is old; grieve him not as long as he lives. Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him; revile him not all the days of his life” (Sir 3:12–13). Scripture continues: “Kindness to a father will not be forgotten; firmly planted, it will stand against the debt of your sins” (Sir 3:14–15).

God promises great blessings to those who respect, love, and honor their parents, notwithstanding their imperfections. This is the call addressed to each and every one of us.

The family, of course, extends beyond parents to brothers, sisters, and children. And we know well that family life is not always a fairy tale. Growing up with siblings can be difficult, and as life progresses, many families carry wounds, unresolved grievances, and a lack of forgiveness.

This is why Saint Paul, in the second reading, reminds us how to live within the family. He urges us to clothe ourselves “with heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do” (Col 3:12–13).

Many family conflicts, as we know, arise over money, and most often over inheritance. What happens after parents pass away can divide families permanently. Honoring father and mother must therefore extend beyond their lifetime. They are now in God’s hands, and God Himself will vindicate and judge rightly.

Jesus warns us clearly: “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul?” (Mt 16:26). Material gain is always temporary. We live in this world for a short time, but the soul is immortal, created to live forever with God (cf. Wis 2:23).

No treasure in the world is worth the loss of a brother or sister, gifts given to you by God, who will live forever as you will. Do not allow petty grievances to divide what God Himself has joined.

Forgiveness and mercy are the keys that free us from the prison of bitterness and anger (cf. Mt 18:21–22).

In today’s Gospel, we are presented with the perfect family, perfect in the eyes of God because They were rooted in prayer and total trust in Him. The Holy Family teaches us a timeless truth: the family that prays together stays together. A family that prays the Rosary together, shares Scripture, attends Mass, listens to the Word of God, and receives the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus together is a family that will remain united and strong (cf. Acts 2:42).

This is my prayer for all of you.

Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary and Saint Joseph, may Almighty God bless you and your families, especially those who are struggling and carrying heavy burdens.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.