Tuesday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

I have often been struck by the tenderness of my brother and sister toward their children when they become upset. These loving parents will pull the troubled child close to them and hold them with a mix of gentleness and strength, illustrating that they recognize how fragile and precious their children are. Each child is a unique, priceless individual whose growth and maturation require the care and concern of loving adults, making parenthood an immense responsibility, but it is also a gift from God to receive a child and care for it. I definitely gave my parents a few frights during some of my childhood adventures, and their expressions of concern for my wellbeing revealed how much they loved and valued me. Of course, children need opportunities to spread their wings and test their limits so that they can grow and mature, but it tears are parents’ heartstrings to let them do so because they know how precious they are.

Reflection by Fr. Victor Schinstock, OSB