Psalm Reflection: The Feast of the Holy Family (Cycle C)

“Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.” - Psalm 128

In this Christmas season, it seems odd to read about fear in relationship to God when we are joyfully celebrating His birth as a baby. I think we can better understand the meaning of “fear” in this Psalm when we focus on the challenge to “walk in His ways.” What are His ways? Well God Himself became the most vulnerable among us, a baby, in order to live a life completely exposed to human trials and temptations. He allowed Himself to endure the ultimate suffering: paying a debt He did not owe because we owed a debt we could not pay. That is humility and vulnerability at its utmost. When I think about the fact that the creator of the universe, who fashioned galaxies with His fingertips, would do that for me, I feel what is meant by “fear” in this Psalm: wonder and awe. I feel complete wonder at the willingness of God who is all-powerful to become powerless, and awe at the fact He did it for me even though I fail to realize the gravity of that gift on a daily basis. Let this Christmas season be one of wonder for you, and one that allows you to echo the humility and vulnerability of Christ, especially as you see family and friends over the holidays who may not have the same views as you. This week, be Jesus to someone in your family you find particularly difficult by simply listening to them and learning more about their point of view. We are praying for you this week!

See you in the Eucharist!