The Holy Family Sunday

 The gift of the Kingdom of God…

As one year turns over into another, some people make resolutions they hope to keep in the upcoming New Year.  Their aspirations touch on many areas of life.  Some hope to assess more wealth; others desire to earn their college degrees; still others want to broaden their scope of power.

Jesus coming on earth as the year changes also desires to give   humankind an exceptional “offering”.  Jesus presents us with an invitation to His Kingdom. He does not want to frighten us with the enormity of his royal majesty, so arriving on earth inconspicuously, He is born among shepherds in a small rock cave in Bethlehem.  From that moment, even the poorest and most intimidated came to the King.  Yes, they became the “first”, for to them was given the grace to witness the birth of the Messiah.  And some thirty years later, Jesus confirmed their election with the words: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven”.  (Mt 5:3)

The ability to be poor in spirit is a special gift and each of us ought to ask for it.  Let us review our New Year’s resolutions and make the necessary corrections so that we do not miss this special invitation.  For a unique promise is written about it: “But seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.” (Mt 6:33) Those, having risked everything and wholeheartedly having accepted his invitation, quickly noticed that it opens the door to new life.  It is the fullness of power which gives a sense of joy, freedom, security and love.  It is an invitation to spiritual rebirth which is “not of this world”.  The Infant King is interested only in the heart of each person for it is there he wishes to implant the truth of the kingdom of His Father, the claim of infinite love.

Let this, then, be our resolution for the New Year, to desire that our lives and those of our fellow parishioners be filled with blessings, joy and prosperity.

Roman Harmata, PA