Blessed are they who dwell in your house, O Lord.-- Psalm 84:(see 5)
Mass readings: Sirach 3:2-6,12-14 or 1 Samuel 1:20-22,24-28 / Colossians 3:12-21 or 3:12-17 or 1 John 3:1-2,21-24 / Luke 2:41-52
Our fast-paced, accomplishment-oriented society poses a lot of challenges for families. The pressures of school and work, the need for both parents to work outside the home, plus the innumerable possibilities for activities, all make it difficult for families to unite, both physically and spiritually. Even though certain aspects of society can't be altered, a family needs to find a ''glue'' to hold it together.
Today's readings are part of the solution: mutual respect among family members is a powerful, unifying factor. Jesus respected His parents, but Joseph and Mary also respected Jesus and His need to be in his Father's house. Let's renew our commitment to greater respect for one another, but most especially among our family members and our fellow Catholics.
Prayer: Lord, help me to always show respect for others and, in doing so, show respect for You.