Both our bitterest pains and sweetest joys in life can come from family. This year, immediately after Christmas Day, the readings invite us to reflect on what it means to live as family.

The Letter to the Colossians describes a certain balance. Wives are to submit to husbands; husbands are to love their wives gently. Children are to obey parents; parents are not to provoke children.

Practically, such harmony is not easy to attain. Today many people find themselves in the challenging position of caring for both their children and parents. Showing honour to a mother and father may become most difficult when parents enter old age. Yet, kindness shown to them is kindness shown to the Lord.

All members are called to bear with one another and to forgive. This does not mean that we ignore unhealthy behaviour or deny past hurts. Rather, we are called to live deeply aware of Christ's love for us. We are invited not to act out of hurts we have sustained, but rather, act out of the love God offers us now.

Family life is far from easy - even for the Holy Family. Amidst the bittersweet experiences of birth and flight, joy and uncertainty, they trust deeply in God. They bear with one another. God preserves and blesses them.