The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph

In other years: Saint Thomas Becket (1118-1170)

Readings of the Day
RB: Ch 71 Mutual Obedience
Mass: Sir 3:2-6, 12-14; Resp Ps 128; Col 3:12-21; Mt 2:13-15, 19-23

Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.

Two prayers come to the fore on this Feast of the Holy Family.

For family members who are alienated or estranged: that the unfailing power of the mercy of Jesus will reunite and reconcile loved ones.

(Magnificat, Prayer of the Faithful, December 29, 2019)

Son of God and Son of Man, you were born into a human family:

strengthen the bonds of love and reverence in every family.

(Magnificat, Intercessions, December 29, 2019)

Whether we find ourselves a member of a family, community, or any other human gathering, we can all play our part and help strengthen bonds of love and reverence. St Paul writes for us to "put on 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). Over all these we are to "put on love and let the peace of Christ control our hearts" (Col 3:14-15). And be thankful (Col 3:15). Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, please help us.

The Most Beautiful Words You'll Ever Hear

"I'm sorry."

"I forgive you."

"Thank you!"

(The Way of Gratitude: Readings for a Joyful Life, p. 1)

Today let us entrust to the Holy Family all the world's families, especially those tried by suffering or by discomfort, and let us invoke divine protection on them.
(Pope Francis, Twitter, December 29, 2019)

Today's photo: A family human and holy.

© Gertrude Feick 2019