Matthew 2:13-15 NRSVue
13Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” 14Then Joseph got up, took the child and his mother by night, and went to Egypt 15and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet, “Out of Egypt I have called my son.”
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Further reflection
Just after the wonders and signs of the visit of the Magi, Joseph is ready to move on. I pray that I may be able to relish inspiration wherever I find it, hope yet always remain poised to act.
Joseph, Mary and Jesus lived the lives of exiles. I pray for all who are away from home at this time because of political conditions and think of the exiles I encounter.
When I read this passage where is my mind and heart drawn? Is it to the fragility of the child, the Word of God, under threat of extinction? Is it the solid, reliability of Joseph in the father's role? God's inspiration coming in remarkable ways?
God has something for me here. What is it?
Why choose this story to celebrate the Holy Family? It is not a story of peaceful routine, but rather of drama and hazards and difficult decisions. Jesus and family are displaced persons seeking a place to live.