Reflection
Father’s Day
When my father would see me or any of us six children sad or down, he would come over and put his arm around us and say, “You might as well laugh at life because you are not going to get out of it alive anyway.” My father was good at giving situations a humorous perspective. Today’s scripture readings provide us with meaningful insights to Christian parenting. In our first reading, Jeremiah faced immense challenges of isolation and persecution for speaking God’s truth. Jeremiah provides us an example of a Christian parent standing up for what is right, whatever it costs. As Christians, we are called to faithful commitment and moral integrity. At times, we are called to be “mighty champions” leading by example and trusting in God’s providence.
In the Gospel passage, Jesus tells his followers not to fear those who can harm us, but rather to honor and reverence God. Jesus uses the imagery of sparrows sold for a penny.
Jesus emphasizes that all of us are created precious, unique, and watched over by every human being.
“So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
-Matthew 10:31
Jesus is trying to assure us that we are deeply loved and protected by God. If God cares for all of creation, God cares for and loves each of us.
There are times when each of us doubts our self-worth because of what people have said about us, or we fail at something. At those times, my Dad would have said, “Laugh at life. Life is too short to worry about it because God loves you.” Thanks, Dad!
Happy Father’s Day to all Dads!
