The Holy Family - A Model of Love, Obedience, and Divine Purpose

 

Homily for the Feast of the Holy Family, Year C

Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch

Bible Texts: Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14; Colossians 3:12-21; Luke 2:41-52

Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family, a solemn occasion that invites us to reflect on the sanctity of family life as modeled by Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. In a world where families often face challenges of conflict, misunderstanding, division, and secular influences, the Holy Family stands as a model of love, obedience, and alignment with God’s plan. The readings for this feast offer profound insights into the divine vision for families and the virtues that sustain them.

In the first reading, the Book of Sirach emphasizes the sacred duty of honoring one’s parents, describing it as a way to atone for sins and find favor with God. “Whoever honors his father atones for sins, and preserves himself from them” (Sirach 3:3). This respect is not only a moral obligation but also a reflection of divine order. We all must reflect on how we honor our family members, especially parents and elders.

In today’s society, where individualism often overshadows the collective unity of family, Sirach reminds us that care for one another - especially for the elderly - is a way of fulfilling God’s commandments. Just as Joseph cared for Mary and the Child Jesus, we too are called to uphold the dignity of every family member through love and sacrifice.

The psalmist speaks of the joy of dwelling in the Lord’s house, a joy that resonates with the spiritual harmony of a family that is built and centered on God. “Blessed are they who dwell in your house, O Lord” (Psalm 84:5a). The home, like the Holy Family’s house in Nazareth, becomes a sanctuary and a Domestic Church where God’s presence is tangible through prayer, mutual love, and shared faith. Our homes are called to be places where God’s peace reigns. Families can achieve this by creating environments rooted in forgiveness, gratitude, and devotion, ensuring that their relationships are a testament to God’s love.

In the second reading, St. Paul in his letter to the Colossians provides a blueprint for family living, urging believers to “put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12). These virtues are essential in fostering relationships that reflect Christ’s love. Paul also calls for forgiveness, unity, and the primacy of love: “And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection” (Colossians 3:14).

The passage also addresses specific roles within the family, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and collaboration. Husbands and wives are called to a partnership of love and sacrifice, while children are reminded of their duty to obey their parents. Fathers, in turn, are instructed not to provoke their children but to nurture them in ways that encourage growth and faith.

The Gospel reading recounts the finding of the twelve-year-old Jesus in the temple, an event that revealed his deep sense of mission and obedience to the Father’s will. “Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49). While Mary and Joseph did not fully understand his response, they modeled trust and humility, embracing the mystery of God’s plan. This passage reminds us the importance of aligning family life with God’s purpose. Just as Mary and Joseph supported Jesus’ mission, families today, are called to support each family member in discovering and pursuing their God-given mission, just as Mary and Joseph did for Jesus (Luke 2:49-50).

Lastly, on this Feast of the Holy Family, let us recommit ourselves to building families that reflect the love, unity, and obedience of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. By living out the virtues highlighted in today’s readings, our families can become living examples of God’s grace in a society desperately in need of renewal. May the Holy Family intercede for us and inspire us to make our homes places where God dwells and where his love is made visible. Amen.