Weekly Gospel Reflection

World Grandparents Day is this Sunday, July 29th, providing us with a moment to pause and reflect on the significant role of grandparents in our lives and their enduring influence on the world around us.

Catholic Tradition offers limited information about Jesus' grandparents, St. Joachim and Anne. While they are not mentioned in the Gospels, we can turn to the non-canonical text (writings not found in the Bible) of the Gospel according to St. James for some insights.

According to this text, Joachim was a wealthy and pious descendant of David from the Old Testament. However, Joachim and Anne faced years of difficulty having children, which was viewed as a source of shame in the Jewish culture of their time. In response, Joachim retreated into the wilderness, seeking God's intervention.

An angel appeared to both Joachim and Anne, promising them a child who would play a significant role in God's plan for humanity. This divine promise mirrors the stories of other biblical figures like Sarah and Abraham, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of God's intervention in seemingly impossible situations.

Although the Gospel of James is not part of the Bible due to concerns about its accuracy and authorship, it provides a glimpse into the Early Church's thinking. Joachim and Anne continue to be revered in the Church for their faithfulness, humility, and trust in God, making them worthy patron saints for grandparents.

Grandparents Day is an opportunity for us to express thanksgiving for the role they play in our lives. From caring for grandchildren while their parents work or enjoy some personal time to taking pride in their accomplishments, and offering ongoing support as their own children become new parents, grandparents hold a special place in our families.

Reflecting on the quote "A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit," we should also consider the immense contributions of their generations in building the world we live in today. Their efforts in defending our nation, creating communities with a high quality of living, and leaving behind a lasting legacy deserve recognition and gratitude.

This Sunday, let's make an extra effort to spend time with our parents or grandparents, expressing heartfelt gratitude for all they do and finding ways to spoil and cherish them. Showing appreciation for their love and wisdom can strengthen family bonds and create cherished memories for years to come.

Saint Anne and Saint Joachim,

you were ever faithful to God, trusting in Him

in your lives and while you prayed for a child.

Your patience and perseverance in prayer

are an example to me.

I ask that you pray for me,

that I may be ever faithful and trusting in God.

May I always keep my focus on Him and trust in His timing in my life.

May my love for God and my faith in Him never waiver,

no matter what happens in my life.

May I appreciate the faith of others (like you two)

and be inspired to a deeper faith.

May my life of faith in God be richly blessed.

May I know, love, and serve God with all of my heart.

Saints Anne and Joachim, thank you for your example of faith.

Thank you for your wonderful daughter, my spiritual mother Mary.

Thank you for the love of God and the faith you inspire in me.

Grandparents of Jesus,

 pray for me.

Amen.