We are all God's begotten.

The theme before us today, “We are all God’s begotten” is both a proclamation of identity and a call to live in trust and dignity as God’s children. In the first reading from Acts, Paul proclaims the heart of the Christian message: though Jesus was rejected, condemned, and crucified, “God raised him from the dead.” This resurrection is the fulfillment of God’s promise. Paul connects it to the words of the Psalm: “You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.” Jesus is revealed as the true Son of God, the one in whom all God’s promises find their completion. But here is the beautiful truth: through Christ, we too are drawn into this sonship. We are not outsiders to God’s family. By the resurrection of Jesus, we become children of God, sharing in His life. This is why Paul says, “to us this word of salvation has been sent.” It is not distant; it is personal. We are God’s begotten, not by nature like Christ, but simply by grace, through Him. In the Gospel, Jesus speaks tenderly to His disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” Why? Because they belong to the Father. There is a place prepared for them. Their identity as children gives them security, even in uncertainty. And when Thomas is confused, Jesus responds with one of the most powerful declarations: “I am the way and the truth and the life.” The way to live as God’s children is a relationship with Christ. Today is also the optional memorial of Saint Joseph the Worker, a man who lived this identity in a quiet and profound way. Joseph did not speak many words in Scripture, but his life speaks volumes. As a carpenter, he worked with his hands, providing for Jesus and Mary. Yet his work was not just labor, it was participation in God’s plan. He trusted God, obeyed His voice, and lived faithfully in the ordinary. Joseph reminds us that being “God’s begotten” is not about status, but about relationship and trust. In his daily work, in his responsibilities, in his silent sacrifices, he lived as a beloved son of God. He teaches us that holiness is found not only in extraordinary moments, but in everyday faithfulness. So today, we are invited to embrace our identity. We are God’s children. In Christ, we have a place in the Father’s house. Like Joseph, we are called to live this truth in the simplicity of our daily lives, through our work, our service, and our trust in God. May we not let our hearts be troubled but believe. And may our lives, like that of Saint Joseph, quietly reveal that we truly belong to God.