The holiness of families

As I read today's scriptures, I identified mostly with Joseph. We're both fathers doing the best we can to take care of our families. And then I thought about how my wife's role in our family is so important, life-giving and vital. And then I remembered my sons - they are great kids and they bring much joy and optimism to our family.

Respect, honor, kindliness, sympathy, patience, forgiveness, humility, doing the right thing even when it's hard or hard to understand. All of that, wrapped up in love; that's family, and I think that's also a pathway to holiness. Families are meant to be holy, and to be a way towards holiness.

Some say the family is under attack these days, by some amorphous thing called 'the culture wars'. I will grant that it is not easy these days to keep a family together, to keep it healthy and loving. But then, every generation has its challenges. Our response to the world we live in, to its challenges and obstacles, is what makes the difference. As fathers and mothers, what is our response to the challenges facing our families?

Comments

[Fran aka Redondowriter]

Steve, I just wanted to wish you and your family the most blessed 2008 possible. I really liked your post about you and Joseph doing the best jobs you can (could) and then remembering your wife's role, too. Thinking of you.

[Steve Bogner]

Thanks Fran! I hope your new year is a great one, too.