Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

 

Family: Celebration of Relationships 

Bible Reading: St. Luke 2: 41–52  

Key verse: “Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was obedient to them, and his mother treasured  all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years and in divine and human favor.” – (Verses 51 & 52) 

DEVOTION

The story of the boy Jesus in the temple is a profound moment in which Jesus reveals His divine  purpose for the first time (v. 49). This passage offers us two important lessons about the significance of family  relationships: 
1. Celebration of Relationships through Shared (Spiritual) Objectives 
The family of Jesus exemplifies the importance of shared objectives, particularly spiritual ones, which  serve as a foundation for a healthy family structure. The passage notes, “Every year his parents went to  Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover, and when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the  festival.” The family's collective participation in the Passover festival reflects their spiritual unity and shared  purpose.  
In today’s world, family members often pursue individual goals, leading to fragmentation and  weakening of family bonds. Shared objectives—especially those rooted in faith and spirituality—help  cultivate deeper relationships by aligning the family on common ground. It’s crucial to distinguish between  sharing objectives and imposing personal ambitions. Sharing objectives is rooted in love and mutual support,  while forcing dreams stems from selfishness and control. By nurturing shared goals, families can celebrate  their relationships rather than suffocate them with unrealistic expectations. 
2. Celebration of Relationships through Shared (Spiritual) Spaces 
When Mary and Joseph find Jesus in the temple after days of searching, their reaction is notable.  Although they are initially anxious, the text does not record any anger or harsh rebuke from His parents.  Instead, after Jesus explains His mission, He goes with them to Nazareth and remains obedient to them. This  demonstrates the mutual respect and acceptance within the Holy Family, despite moments of confusion or  misunderstanding.  
In many modern families, shared physical and emotional spaces are diminishing. Family prayers, once  a daily practice, are often neglected. Shared meals, which foster connection, have become rare. Silence often  fills the gaps where meaningful conversations should take place, and validation within the family can feel  earned rather than given freely. This creates a suffocating atmosphere where love is conditional and  relationships strained.  
Shared spaces are essential for growth and must be cultivated through open communication and selfless  love. A family that fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and supported creates a space for  personal and collective growth, much like Jesus, who “increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and  human favor.” 

PRAYER

Triune God, Help our family to cultivate love, the one you showed us, so that we may be able to celebrate  the relationships that you have entrusted us with. In Jesus name we pray, Amen  

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

"Family is not defined by our genes, it is built and maintained through love, respect, and acceptance." -  Unknown 



Rev. Sobin Abraham Jose
Vicar
Salem Mar Thoma Church, Nooranad 
Hebron Mar Thoma Church, Panayil,Kerala India.

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