THIRTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Building a Family of Faith: A Mother's Guide to Living Jesus' Teachings in Daily Life

In today’s gospel from Mark, Jesus answers the scribe’s desire to understand the law by citing great Shema prayer, as well as what we now call the “golden rule.” Together these form the foundation of all the law: loving God with all of our being, and loving one’s neighbor as oneself. From a mother’s perspective, this teaching of Jesus serves as a fundamental guide for our lives and those of our children. By placing God at the center and loving Him with all our heart, soul and mind, we recognize that our strength and purpose come from Him. This love for God also inspires us to treat others with the same love and respect we desire for ourselves.

Reflecting on these commandments, we can see that it’s not just about external actions, but an inner transformation that moves us to be more generous, patient, and understanding. It reminds us that our mission isn’t just to care for our family, but to teach them to love and respect others, living out the love that Jesus showed us.

By following these commandments, we not only strengthen our relationship with God, but also build a family and community based on respect and true love, bringing us closer to the Kingdom of God. Here are five practical actions inspired by this reflection on Jesus' teachings, focusing on instilling faith, love and respect in a family setting:

1. Daily Family Prayer and Reflection: Dedicate a time each day for family prayer and reflection, where everyone can thank God, ask for guidance, and reflect on one way they can show love and respect that day. This builds the habit of placing God at the center and uniting the family in faith.

2. Service Projects Together: Choose monthly service activities that help the community, such as volunteering at a shelter or collecting food donations. Engaging in acts of generosity and compassion reinforces the teachings of Jesus and models kindness and selflessness.

3. Encouraging Loving Words and Actions: Foster a family environment where everyone practices using kind and respectful language. Recognize and praise each other for acts of patience, understanding and generosity, encouraging these virtues as everyday expressions of love.

4. Faith-Based Family Meetings: Hold weekly or bi-weekly family meetings or sessions to discuss how everyone is doing in their spiritual journey, with a focus on living Jesus' teachings in practical ways. Encourage open discussions on challenges and celebrate moments of growth or acts of kindness.

5. Modeling Forgiveness and Patience: As parents, demonstrate forgiveness and patience in daily interactions. Let children witness these values in action, especially when facing conflicts or misunderstandings, teaching that true love involves patience and a willingness to forgive.

Prayer: Lord, we thank you for being the center of our lives and the source of our strength. Guide us to love you with all our heart, soul and mind, and help us show that love to others. Teach us to be generous, patient and forgiving, creating a home and community filled with kindness and respect. May our actions reflect your love, building a family and community that honor you. Amen.

--Veronica Vazquez

Send Us Forth are reflections written by St. Matthew parishioners and friends.