December 30, 2018 THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH-C

1 Samuel 1:20-22, 24-28

Psalm 84

1 John 3:1-2, 21-24

Luke 2:41-52

See what love the Father has bestowed on us… 1 John 3:1

And Jesus advanced in wisdom and age and favor before God and man.  Lk. 2:52

Lord, I try to imagine the fear and worry of Joseph and Mary when you went missing in a huge city.  The story ends well and lessons were learned.  As your family returned home your parents didn’t quite understand it all but they pondered all these things in their hearts.  Lord, the family was the very first social human unit created by our loving Father.  The family is where we learn so much about human relationships.  None of our families are perfect but they are reflections of your Holy Family.  There are times of unity and peace and there are times of trouble and loss.   Lord, help us to remember that all of us are your children.  Step by step we slowly grow in wisdom and understanding as to how to live together as you have called us to.  May my family “advance in wisdom and age and favor before God and man.”  I pray for broken families, separated families, violent families and all who are in need of your healing.  Help us to forgive, be patient, give generously of time and to always walk in your grace.  Dear Jesus, come and live in our home.  Amen.