"To forget one's ancestors is to be a brook without a source, a tree without a root," the Chinese proverb said. We are strongly connected to our ancestors, who appear in what we inherited. What do our ancestors leave behind? Some might answer material inheritance, while others might say education or life itself. The latter is the most significant legacy, as without life, other things lose their meaning and value.
The Legacy of Righteous Ancestors
Righteous ancestors wish to pass on a life of goodness, including education and good habits. Among the several legacies they leave, virtue stands out as one that is treasured and remembered for centuries to come. They hope for their descendants to live in loving relationships, peace, and harmony. When this happens, the ancestors rejoice in the afterlife.
Celebrating Saints Joachim and Anne
Today, our parish celebrates its patron saints, Joachim and Anne, the parents of the Virgin Mary and grandparents of Jesus Christ. Although the Bible does not mention their lives, the Church tradition teaches us about their story. Although they did not have any children, Joachim and Anne were considered to be devout Jews who remained committed to God despite the social stigma that was associated with their lack of children.
Lessons from Saints Joachim and Anne
Saints Joachim and Anne are our ancestors in faith. We can learn about life from them. First of all, it is about family life. Joachim and Anne exemplify the importance of family life centered on faith and love. Their devotion to each other and to their daughter Mary serves as a model for Christian family life.
Then, it is regarding patronage. Joachim is the patron saint of fathers, grandfathers, and married couples, while Anne is the patron saint of unmarried women, housewives, women in labor or seeking to conceive, grandmothers, mothers, and educators.
Finally, we can learn about faith and humility. The Church honors Saints Joachim and Anne for their unwavering faith, humility, and trust in God's providence. The Blessed Virgin Mary learns about those virtues from her parents.
Conclusion
The legacy of ancestors like Saints Joachim and Anne reminds us of the importance of faith, family, and virtue. As we celebrate their feast day, we are encouraged to reflect on our lives and the legacy we wish to leave behind. By following their example, we can build stronger families and communities rooted in love, peace, and harmony.
The fact that we may not know a great deal about Saints Joachim and Anne does not prevent us from considering the kind of descendants we would like to be. It is not about our ancestors but rather about ourselves. This is in line with what Abraham Lincoln said: "I don't know who my grandfather was; I am much more concerned to know what his grandson will be." (*)