When Bishop Fulton J. Sheen would present one of his famous chalk talks, he would quickly write "JMJ" at the top fo the blackboard.
When I was in Catholic grade school, we would write "JMJ" at the top of our papers. I think it was a reminder for us to do our best work.
Recently when I watched a Poco a Poco Podcast, one of the friars spoke of hospitality in the Nazareth home of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
When one offers hospitality, she or he helps others feel at home. The guests are received and welcomed just as they are. They can relax and enjoy good conversation, perhaps a meal, and come to know each other in a more familiar way. The friar suggested that, in prayer, we could ask Jesus, Mary, and Joseph to invite us into their home, into their communion with one another, which is a share in the communion of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
If I were invited into the home in Nazareth, what would I see? What would I hear?
How would I be received?
What would my experience of being with the Holy Family be like? How would it affect me?
What would I want to share with them?
I believe Jesus, Mary, and Joseph had profound love for one another, and profound love and hospitality for anyone who came into their presence.
As a follower of Jesus, I too am asked to offer hospitality to others. I can "create a space" for others to be truly themselves, to feel that I am listening to their concerns and observations, that I really care. I can take the time to be present to others whom I encounter (even when I am inconvenienced!), that they feel valued and appreciated. I can allow the love of Jesus to touch our hearts.
Matthew 18: 20 - "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them."