Each family is an icon or a reflection of the Holy Family. Often, we can identify some part of our lives with theirs. Other times they can serve as a model for us to imitate.

Joseph is righteous before God, he has a good work ethic that he passes on to his son, and he is a faithful loving husband, who brings stability to his home life and to the community in which he lives. Mary is humble, nurturing, and directive. She treasures in her heart everything about her Son and she worries.

Jesus is an obedient son, loyal to tradition, faithful and caring for his parents. He is a willing student so He may become a better Teacher.

I believe that in many ways the Family of Nazareth was a normal one with even some dysfunctions about it that made it quirky. From the Gospel, it looks like they need to work on their communication skills, for example. This is what made them a human family, our family and as such, they mirror the love of the Family of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Nazareth is the place where we find solidarity with all human families, rich or poor, single- home or homeless, educated or not. All human families are one because of what the Holy Family teaches us- humility, love, respect, compassion, discipline and forgiveness. My brothers and sisters, we are keenly aware that family life is not an easy life, but we are God’s chosen ones: holy and beloved. If we pray together, eat together and if we allow ourselves some quiet time together we can learn how to live the virtues of the family and come to the know the God Who is the head of every family.

As I said before, do not be afraid to put the ‘fun’ back in dysfunction and just appreciate the characters that make up your family! As you gather with them during the Christmas Season express gratitude to them for being the unique blessing that they are!