SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 | FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS
Genesis 15:1-6, 21:1-3; Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14; Psalm 128; Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19; Luke 2:22-40 or 2:22, 39-40
When I was a boy, I vividly remember visiting my paternal grandfather in the hospital shortly before he died. He had several health issues and was waiting for a diagnosis. As an act of care, my father gently shaved his face. It was tender. It was grace-filled. My grandfather's fragility lay in my father's strong hands. It was an ordinary act in the midst of a waiting season that was a vehicle to deeper healing.
Today's Gospel passage illuminates a key moment for another family, the Holy Family. The Holy Spirit made it known to the prophet Simeon that he would see Christ before his death. Mary and Joseph presented Jesus to Simeon at the Temple. He immediately embraced Jesus and proclaimed, "Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace…" Simeon is depicted in a variety of ways throughout history, but my favorite image comes from Saint Bonaventure's meditation, "Tree of Life," where Simeon is joyously dancing.
Preston Becker, MDiv, BCC
Director of Spiritual Care
Ascension St. Vincent
Pause
On this feast of the Holy Family, may the halls of our hospitals be renewed with peace in the forms of joyous dancing and sacred embracing of "holy families" seeking care in our strong hands.
Pray
God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen