Gospel Reflections for December 28 2025: Feast of the Holy Family

Gospel for December 28 2025 – Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23

Gospel Reflections for December 28 2025

The Holy Family and your family…

We have a lot of problems in our world today: Middle East and Ukraine conflicts, violence in politics, and perhaps challenging events in your family as well. 

The Holy Family of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus also lived in times of great unrest and anxiety. Yet they were at peace. What was their secret?

The Holy Family reveals something about how problems are solved when little brothers and sisters fight each other. Children look above …to their parents …to fix things. Children will cry out to their parents, “Make him stop hurting me!” Children know they cannot find justice and peace at their own level. Children look for that higher authority to bring relief.

Joseph and Mary both looked to God above as well. They both received and listened carefully to messages from God delivered by an Angel.  

Today’s readings affirm the way forward in peace even in our world today. It has wise advice for all the relationships you have. 

Listen to God. Joseph paid attention to the message of God delivered in today’s Gospel. He took the right steps to ensure the safety of his family. What are the dangers your family faces? The internet? Television? Fear and anxiety? Daily connecting with God always brings the right perspective and balance in life, and helps you keep everything in your family in the right priority. 

Be respectful: The First and Second readings invite you to always treat everyone with respect, politeness, and dignity. Never forget that others are immortal souls created by God. Even in intense arguments make sure you never speak insults or demeaning comments. 

Be Courageous. By travelling to far off Egypt, Joseph made the changes he needed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of his family. Delaying or procrastinating important decisions often leads to more problems. Doing what needs to be done in a timely fashion brings a great sense of satisfaction. 

Seek Wisdom. Joseph recognized it was not safe to return to Bethlehem so he went further north to Nazareth instead. Wisdom is knowing the right thing to do and at the right time, even when difficult. 

Prayer Respect, Courage, and Wisdom will help guide all your relationships and ensure you and your loved ones will truly have a Happy New Year

God Bless!

Fr. Dave