On this Fathers’ Day we might reflect on what fatherhood is. We look to God for that understanding. God loves all his children. His love is shown by his watching over and protecting us. He, moreover, provides for us. St. Joseph is the model of God’s fatherly love. He certainly did all that he could in order to watch over and protect Jesus and Mary. He worked to provide for them. He was a man of tremendous faith and trust in God.
Our fathers most likely did not go through the lengths that St. Joseph did (the flight into Egypt, etc.) But, they nevertheless showed the same love by their taking care of us. Some did travel great distances so that there would be a better life for their wives and children. They worked hard in spite of temptations to take it easy. Their families come first. Like their wives, they always want the best for their children. Every father’s heart bursts with pride whenever his child does something good or makes an achievement. This shows a true desire for the happiness of their children.
It really is a blessing to have a day each year to remind us about the gift that each of our fathers is to us. May we respect and honor them each day. If we give a gift, may that gift be a manifestation of the love in our hearts. For those fathers who have departed this life, may they always be remembered by their children in their prayers and Masses. Today there is the opportunity to offer up our prayers and intentions for each of our fathers during the Masses. These are ways that we can express our appreciation and our love for them.
Fr. Stanley
