Today, the Feast of the Holy Family is an important feast as the model of the Christian family. But it is just as much about our own families as it is about the family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. And just like our own families, they had their share of hardships. Let’s look back…

Mary became pregnant before she was married. Mary and Joseph had to leave their home when Mary was about to give birth. They had their baby in a stable. Joseph had to pack up his family and run off to Egypt in fear of the King killing their baby. Then when Jesus was around 12 years old, they lost him in the temple for 3 days. And finally, Mary had to watch her own son be crucified.

They had to overcome the trials and difficulties they encountered along the way. But their love and devotion for each other was strong. So, the idea of the Feast of the Holy Family is to help us reflect on our own lives and try to imitate the Holy Family in our homes. We have sorrows, doubts, confusion but should be inspired by the light of the Holy family. Their light encourages me to share peace, harmony, forgiveness and love in my family.