December 28, 2008: The Feast of the Holy Family

As they held the Child, Mary and Joseph heard words from Anna and Simeon. Anna’s words have been lost to us, but Simeon’s are haunting: “this Child is destined to be downfall and the rise of many…a sign that will be opposed.” As I think on His message, a message about not judging others, a message about turning the other cheek and not resorting to power and violence, I think how often I, myself, have “opposed” those words and that message. I think of how I’ve “risen” by humility, and “fallen flat” when I forgot His message, and let pride puff me up, only then, to fall. I’ve seen Simeon’s prophecy come to life in me! The author of the letter to the Colossians knew that same struggle, and urges everyone to “forgive their grievances…as God has forgiven them.” For in doing so, we become the humble, peaceful “family of God,” setting His authority over us, and honoring Him, as the Book of Sirach begs us do.