December 27, 2015
Feast of the Holy Family
Jesus is 12 years old -- at the threshold of becoming a man in Jewish society. He is a pious boy becoming an assured and confident young man. Joseph takes Jesus and Mary to Jerusalem for Passover. They travel by caravan. After the feast they discover Jesus is not with them. This is not parental neglect. Women and children leave first and the men follow later meeting at the evening encampment. Joseph is thinking the boy is with Mary. Mary is thinking Jesus is with Joseph. Mary and Joseph return to Jerusalem. They find Jesus listening to the Sanhedrin in public discussion/debate of issues pertaining to the faith. All are amazed at the insights of Jesus. Mary asks her son why he has done this to them. She explains: “Your father and I have been looking for you with great anxiety.†Jesus responds: “Why have you been looking for me? Did you not know I must be in my Father’s house; doing my Father’s work.†Jesus is taking the title “father†he uses with respect and love for Joseph and now using it in reference to God – his heavenly Father. It is a moment of Christological significance. Jesus is acknowledging his unique filial relationship with God and his awareness of being the Messiah. They return to Nazareth. Mary keeps this event in her heart. Jesus continues to be obedient and respectful of his parents. On this feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph we ask God’s blessings on all our families. You are the micro Church – instilling and nurturing the Catholic faith. This episode in the Gospel according to St. Luke, the only time the boy Jesus is mention in the Gospels, should set an example for us in addressing issues of misunderstanding with honesty and respect. It also highlights the key role of Joseph and all fathers in sharing the faith. In his public ministry, Jesus will invite us to call God: “Abba†or “Dad.â€
Previous:
Nativity of the Lord
Next:
Mary, Mother of God
