I have many “Mom” phrases that I freely use with my children. During their middle-school years, I would often have a child return from school upset. The ages between eleven and fifteen always wrought with emotion, brought out a little more drama than necessary. The funny thing to me was group work assignments always pushed them over the edge. They did not like relying on others for the outcome of their work. Here comes the “Mom” phrase….
“Life is group work.”
I think the phrase is setting in now that my children are a little older. Both of my children are navigating independence and see the usefulness of working well with others. I still use this “Mom” phrase, but I now see it with a different lens.
Pope Francis decreed 2021 as the year of St. Joseph.
The gentle earthly father of Jesus says not a word in scripture. However, he demonstrates the value of group work. Think about it. Joseph was an established carpenter who had his whole life changed when he met Mary. Once she entered his life, he had to endure the scandal of her pregnancy, flee his home, and protect this special gift from God. I’m sure this was not his life-long dream as a child. Joseph undoubtedly had his own goals. However, as a humble servant of the Lord, he worked with the Lord’s plan to help obtain a greater good.
“Life is group work” still resounds with me. I apply it to all aspects of my life. I challenge us all today to implement this motto in our faith life as well. Let us model our faith after our foster-father St. Joseph to see where God leads us.
For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:9
