All in the Family

Readings for Sunday, December 29, 2019 — The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph

Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14 or 1 Samuel 1:20-22, 24-28; Psalm 128: 1-5 or Psalm 84:2-3, 5-6, 9-10; Colossians 3:12-21 or Colossians 3: 12-17 or 1 John 3: 1-2, 21-24; Luke 2:41-52

Suggested Reflection Question:

  • When have you felt like you were part of the family of God? How do you help welcome others into God’s family?
  • The psalm today is about prosperity. Why do you think this theme is included in the Christmas season of the Church? 
  • In Luke, Jesus leaves Mary and Joseph to go to “his Father’s house” to learn and teach. What family transitions have you experienced as you’ve grown into young adulthood or postgrad life? What joys and  challenges have accompanied them?
  • How do the instructions in Colossians to “put on … heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another” help you in your interactions with family members during the Christmas season and throughout the year?