FROM THE SERVANT GENERAL
OUR THEME FOR 2021
(Part 10)
OUR MISSION – 3
Feast of the Holy Family
December 27, 2020
Today’s readings:
Sirach 3:2-6,12-14
Psalm 128:1-5
Colossians 3:12-21
Luke 2:22-40
Our theme verse for 2021 is Acts 13:47. “I have made you a light to the Gentiles, that you may be an instrument of salvation to the ends of the earth.” This command of Jesus is reflected in the words of Simeon when he took Jesus into his arms and blessed God, saying, “for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles” (Lk 2:30-32a). Light. Salvation. All the peoples.
This is our work as MFC, to be light to the world and to proclaim the salvation of Jesus to the ends of the earth. How do we accomplish this? We look to our very own name.
First, we are “of Christ.” The light we shine forth is the light of Christ. We are to fear the Lord and walk in His ways (Ps 128:1). In this way we experience transformation and renewal in Christ. How does this happen?
- We realize that we have been called and chosen by God, to be holy, and as such strive to grow in virtue in life. “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Col 3:12).
- We are to have forgiving hearts, “bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.” (Col 3:13).
- We are to love one another. “And over all these put on love, this is, the bond of perfection.” (Col 3:14).
- We are to be filled with gratitude and be at peace at all times. “And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful.” (Col 3:15).
- We are to be formed by the word of God, and use the wisdom of God in helping each other grow in Christ. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another” (Col 3:16a).
As we are “of Christ,” we, “in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Col 3:17).
Second, we are “families.” As the future of humanity passes by way of the family, then salvation comes to us, yes individually, but also through the mediation of the family. The family in effect becomes an instrument of salvation, the place where we grow into the very salvation of God. So as MFC we work for the renewal and strengthening of families. How can this happen? There must be good order in the family, with roles lived out according to God’s design.
- Father and mother are to be honored, respected and served by their children (Sir 3:2-6).
- Wives are to be submissive to their husbands (Col 3:18).
- Husbands are to love their wives and encourage their children (Col 3:19,21).
- Children are to obey their parents (Col 3:20).
In this way can we look to our family life being blessed. “You will be blessed and prosper: your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your home, your children like young olive plants around your table.” (Ps 128:2b-3).
And future generations will continue to be instruments of salvation, as you “live to see your children’s children.” (Ps 128:6).
Third, we are “missionary.” We proclaim Christ through our work of rapid, massive and worldwide evangelization. As we do this work, there will be challenges.
- There will be those who will oppose the gospel and in effect reject Jesus. “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted.” (Lk 2:34).
- There will be oppression and even persecution. There will be suffering and pain. Just like Mary who was told by Simeon, “you yourself a sword will pierce” (Lk 2:35).
Whatever happens, we know what we as MFC are called to do. We thank God for the privilege of mission, and we carry it out by speaking about Jesus to everyone. This is just like the prophetess Anna, who “gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.” (Lk 2:38).
A child has been born to us, the Messiah and Redeemer. Jesus continues to be born in our hearts, our homes and our community, as we carry on with proclaiming him and his salvation to the ends of the earth.