The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph December 28, 2014 “...He (Simeon) took him in his arms and blessed God in these words: ‘Now, Master, you can dismiss your servant in peace; you have fulfilled your word. For my eyes have witnessed your saving deed displayed for all the people to see; a revealing light to the Gentiles, the glory of your people Israel.’ ... ‘The Lord sets a father in honor over his children; a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.’” At the direction of Pope Francis a synod on the family has taken place in Rome. Reflections and reactions have been sought, as the church considers the gift, the needs and the hopes of families in an age when family life has radically changed. Today we meet the Holy Family of Nazareth. Not unlike ourselves many difficulties and trials came their way. Living as refugees, itinerants, as working laborers, and finally facing trial and condemnation, we can identify with them with the challenges of today. The prayer of Simeon, part of the night prayer of the church, can be ours as well, as we recognize the presence of the Christ among us during these holidays. It was the Spirit that moved Simeon to take Him in his arms and praise God. May we, as we bring this year to a close, express, as he did, our gratitude for the Lord’s presence in so many ways during this year. May we thank God for support in time of need. May we see the light of Christ in our lives and be that light ￼￼￼￼ for members of our family. May we take Him in our arms too. May our fathers mirror the goodness of Joseph caring for and protecting their children. May our mothers bring the warmth, kindness and understanding of Mary, the heart of the home at Nazareth. May the Christ, born anew in our hearts allow us to live blessed by the presence of God’s grace in our lives. May all the virtues mentioned by Paul in Colossians 3, be manifest in our homes.