THE SACRED TASK OF RAISING FAITHFUL CHILDREN: INSPIRED BY MARY AND JOSEPH

Today, Catholics all over the world celebrate the Feast of Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. Amidst the scent of incense and the murmurs of prayer, unfolds a scene both ordinary and extraordinary. Mary and Joseph, young parents like any other, present their newborn son, as prescribed by the Law of Moses. Within this seemingly routine act lies a profound truth: here, God's presence mingles with human life, and the mission and identity of Jesus and Mary are revealed by the old Simeon. The sufferings and agony of the baby and his mother are already forseen here. They accepted all seen and unforseen sufferings out of love for humanity: so that all might be saved through the knowledge of the Jesus, the son of God. 

We can think about the weight on Mary and Joseph's shoulders. Entrusted with the Son of God, their role transcends mere parenthood. They become the first teachers, guiding Jesus' innocent steps along the path of faith. We can picture them, in the quiet moments of their humble home, sharing the stories of their ancestors, the alliance God made with Abraham and his descendants, talking about prophecies, and praying for the prophesied Messiah. They like gardeners, nurtured the seeds of Abrahamic faith in Jesus’ heart, getting him ready for his future mission.

Fast forward to our own time, and the echoes of that sacred moment resonate still. Christian parents are entrusted with the precious task of educating their children in the faith. Many are facing the challenge of living their faith in a world that is often indifferent, even hostile to Gospel values. It can be tough with so much information and different ideas, competing ideologies around us. 

Let remember that we are not alone. Just as the Holy Spirit guided Mary and Joseph, so too does the Spirit guide us. Remember, faith is not just about knowledge; it's about connection, about building a relationship with God. And that connection starts with us, in the small, everyday moments.

Children can be formed when parents gather their children close, share stories from the Bible, sing hymns together, say  "the grace"  at meals. It is also important to create a space for open conversation and dialogue with children, where questions are welcomed and doubts are not dismissed.  It is crcial  not to curse our Children, especially when they upset us.  Rather, let us show them what faith looks like by being loving, kind, and forgiving. Words have power, therefore, let us say good words, words of blessings over them as often as possible.  These actions are like threads that weave a strong fabric in their hearts, something that won’t easily break even when they become adults.

The journey is not easy. There are  and will be moments of doubt, resistance, and even rebellion. But just as the proverb assures us, “Train up a child in the way he should go: And when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). Our efforts, guided by love and prayer, plant seeds that may lie dormant for a while, but will blossom in their own time.

So, let us draw inspiration from Mary and Joseph, those ordinary parents entrusted with an extraordinary task. Let their unwavering faith and steadfast love be our guiding light. 

Remember, we are not just raising children; we are nurturing souls, shaping hearts, and preparing them to carry the torch of faith forward. And in that sacred mission, there is no greater reward, no more profound privilege than that of seeing our children grow in wisdom, knowledge and strength. 

May the Holy family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph intercede for all families, especially broken families and bring us peace and love!!!🙏🙏🙏