Sirach/Ecclesiasticus 3:2-6,12-14; Psalm 127(128); Colossians 3:12-21; Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23
The wisdom of the son of Sirach was written about 200 BC and much used in the Church to present moral teachings. He sees the family as set up by God, in which we learn and practice kindness and honour to each other, just as we respect and honour the Lord.
The psalm celebrates the blessings of family life: husband, wife and children respecting the Lord.
The letter to the Colossians advises that wisdom and knowledge should be interpreted only in relation to Christ. Our baptism frees us from man-made religious rules. Not total autonomy: our lives must reflect the Spirit of Christ within us, while seeking to avoid offending our neighbours. But following these precepts and forgiving others is not easy. This beautiful description of the ideal community and family life assumes the normal family structure of the letter’s time and culture. Husbands, wives and children should treat each other in the way the Lord would, showing mutual respect and duty.
In Matthew’s gospel Jesus is taken to Egypt, with Hosea reminding us of God’s deep love and care for Israel, his son. After the slaughter of the innocents, echoing the deaths of Egypt’s first-born before Israel’s exodus from slavery, Jesus is called back. The family return to Israel and settle in Nazareth in Galilee.
Psalm Response: O blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
(Sirach/Ecclesiasticus 3:2-6,12-14; Psalm 127(128); Colossians 3:12-21; Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23)