At times it can seem daunting to try and imitate the Holy Family. They were the perfect family and our own lives can appear to be far removed from their example.
However, one of the easiest ways to imitate the Holy Family is simply to work!
St. John XXIII pointed this out in his radio message to workers on the feast of St. Joseph the Worker in 1960.
How consoling it is to think that with his help every Christian family, engaged in work, can faithfully reflect the example and image of the Holy Family of Nazareth, in which constant industriousness, despite the trials of life, was joined with the most ardent love of God, and with the generous adjustment to his lovable wishes!
Have you ever reflected on this simple truth?
You can imitate the Holy Family by simply working your daily job, whether its in a factory, office, or at home.
The Holy Family was engaged in work through St. Joseph’s profession, which Jesus took-up and continued until the time of his public ministry.
Jesus sanctified work and showed us the way to finding meaning in our vocation.
The key in elevating your own work is to offer it up to God, uniting yourself to the Holy Family in your job.
St. John XXIII continues by recognizing how we can draw closer to God by joyfully accepting our work as part of God’s divine plan.
How much light the example of Nazareth sheds on these truths, where work is joyfully accepted, as a fulfillment of the divine will! And what greatness the silent and hidden figure of St. Joseph acquires for the spirit with which he fulfills the mission entrusted to him by God!
Work can appear meaningless at times, but when it is seen as part of God’s plan, and an imitation of the Holy Family, it is sanctified and brings us closer to God.
And today we celebrate...