27 March, Thursday — A happy family united in God’s love stays together  

Thursday of the 3^rd Week of Lent

Jer 7:23-28
Lk 11:14-23

“…a household divided against itself collapses.”

Last year, we welcomed a newborn into our family.

I’d never imagined how much smiles, laughter and love a little bundle of joy can bring to my family and me. Every morning, I would feel excited because I can see the cute little one. And if she cried, everyone would rush to her to soothe and comfort her. Sometimes, being a little clingy, she would start crying if everyone left the table during meals. So, I’d sit at the table and play with her.

But I know that in many households around the world, not every new parent is ready to build a family. Abortions, addictions, arguments, and even abandonment and divorces… the list goes on.

In the past, I often quarrelled with my family. But once I started learning more about social behaviours, this made me realize that many of these family quarrels could be resolved if I was a little more understanding and forgiving.

It has not been an easy journey, but at least my parents and I are now better at communicating than in the past. No family is perfect. But we can love one another and reconcile with each other as quickly as we can.

As Saint Paul wrote in his letter to the Ephesians, “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” (Eph 4:26-27)

Brothers and sisters, this Lent, let us offer up our prayers and almsgiving to Jesus and his Holy Family, for the healing and reconciliation of all broken families in this world.

(Today’s OXYGEN by Brenda Khoo)

Prayer: Dear Jesus and the Holy Family, please heal and reconcile all broken families and people in the world. Help families to remain united to You in Your love, joy, and peace.

Thanksgiving: Thank You, Jesus, for showing us how God’s love can be shown in Your Holy Family.