FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY C
WHO HOLDS YOUR HANDS?
LK 2: 41-52
MESSAGE
A man struggling with depression was on the verge of harming himself and probably even taking his life one night. He had no family nearby to call or ask for help. Even in this darkness, he remembered a person whom he immediately called, perhaps for a last farewell. That person, who was just a recent acquaintance, took the time to listen, comfort, encourage, and accompany the man in his most desperate moment. The man relented of his plan and decided to give life another chance.
When the Boy Jesus was lost in the Temple, it might have been through the kindness of strangers that he survived for three days. He was found in the midst of teachers listening to him and asking him questions. But who fed him? Who gave him a warm bed at night? Who welcomed him into their home? Who cared for this lost boy while his parents were not around? I have reason to believe that Jesus found a family in the presence of people who cared.
When we think of family, our first idea of kinship is blood relationship or consanguinity. We say that blood is thicker than water, and in most cases, it is correct to assume that. But at other times in our lives, when blood relatives are not there, family is not about sharing the same genes or DNA. Family can be the person or persons who hold your hand and claim you in their heart when you need someone badly to accompany you.
REFLECT
In this Christmas season, we pay tribute not only to the Divine Family of the Trinity, to the Holy Family of Nazareth, and to our own families. Let us also gratefully acknowledge the “family” we find among other people who make us feel loved, appreciated, honored and respected for who we are as they hold our hands in support and care.
