All through the Advent season as we prepare for Christmas, we take in tranquil imagery of the Baby Jesus in the manger with Mary and Joseph watching over him. Yet these peaceful images belie the trials and hardships the Holy Family navigated on their journey.

And what a faith-testing and relationship-testing journey it must have been, beginning when Mary received the news that she would conceive a son by the power of the Holy Spirit — a son who would be our Lord and Savior! The news was joyful, yes, but probably fraught with angst for Joseph, who saw that his betrothed was with child and knew it was not by him. Mary must have feared Joseph would leave her.

Next came a grueling overland trek via the transportation of the day (foot, animal or cart) and, finally, giving birth on a cold winter night. In a barn.

Mary and Joseph demonstrated continual openness to God’s will through it all. Mary accepted willingly her call to give birth to Jesus. Joseph never asked, “Why me?” Indeed, as the model for all Christian families, they did as the readings for this weekend remind us: “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another … And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection.” (Col 3:12-14).

At Unbound, we are blessed to witness and experience the faith modeled by the Holy Family in the families we serve around the world. My sponsored friend, Lyka, and her family face typhoons and any number of challenges in their daily lives. Yet, every letter from her conveys her deep faith and trust in God. “And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus ...” (Col 3:17)

Loving Father, during this time of honoring the Holy Family, let us be thankful for their presence in our spiritual lives. Help us remember to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to you, our God. “Let the peace of Christ control your hearts … Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” (Col 3:15-16). Amen.