Family Inheritance

In traditional African society, it was common for parents to sit with their children and share stories of their genealogy and heritage. Sadly, this rich culture is fading in today’s generation. One possible reason is the gradual decline in parental responsibility, influenced by increasing materialism and a diminishing value for human life.

Moreover, when we reflect deeply on our roots, we often discover that many of our behaviours and tendencies are not simply personal choices. Some of them are inherited-either through our genes or shaped by our upbringing. Certain traits are passed down knowingly or unknowingly, and they quietly influence how we live.

Today, as we celebrate Saints Joachim and Anne, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we are reminded of the power of a Godly legacy. Their devotion to God and the temple clearly influenced Mary, who herself became the mother of our Saviour. Holiness often runs in the family.

However, inheritance is not always positive. In Genesis 12:10–20, Abraham lied about his wife Sarah, calling her his sister out of fear. Surprisingly, his son Isaac repeated the same lie in Genesis 26:1–10. This pattern suggests that even weaknesses can be handed down if not addressed.

In our time, I have noticed that many priests and religious often come from families where their parents or grandparents were active in the Church-as catechists, Knights, or devout lay leaders. Personally, my parents were hardworking to a fault, and I often find myself exhibiting the same work ethic.

I recall a classmate who, despite studying less, consistently outperformed me in exams. Later, I learned that his father was a university lecturer. While this isn’t always the case, it shows how our background can shape us more than we realize.

Let us not dismiss our genealogies as primitive or irrelevant. They can offer valuable insight into who we are and how we live. May the Holy Spirit enlighten us to inherit what is good, and by grace, overcome what is not. May our lineage reflect the holiness of Saints Joachim and Anne. Amen.