Most of you reading this are probably parents. If not, you will not truly understand this until you are. Being
a parent is harder but also more rewarding than I ever thought. It's more than taking care of an infant, teaching them
to walk, throwing a baseball in the yard, kissing a boo-boo and making it all better. As they get older this gets harder.
When I was younger I just knew that my parents got enjoyment out of punishing me or not letting me do something I
really wanted. Oh how wrong I was! Sorry mom and dad. There is something my oldest son dearly wanted to
do this winter break, and I really wanted it for him. I almost think I wanted it for him more than he did. But
the requirement that I set for him was not met. He had plenty of time to do it and he has the ability, but it was
not up too my expectation and what I know he is cabable of to be able to earn this special privilege. I am heartbroken for him. I knew how important this was to
him and I wanted it so badly for him. He will have other opportunities, and I
hope next time he will get to do what he wants. But as a parent I have to
teach him what is important and that certain privileges are earned. Just giving
him everything he wants would not be teaching him anything and I would not be doing my job as a parent.
This whole experience opened up a new meaning to God being my Father. It made
me stop to think how badly He wants heaven for all of us because He loves us, but we have to do our part to earn it. We have to first want it, then we have to do our part to deserve the privilege of
going there. I think how hurt I am that my son doesn’t get this special
thing that he wants, but oh how hurt God must be when one of His children turns away the gift of eternal life with Him, or
makes choices that hurt our chances of earning this gift. I can’t even
begin to imagine. Just as I have the ability to give my son what he wants, God
has the ability to give this gift to everyone. But we have to do our part. Sometimes we fail, but there is always another chance, another opportunity. We only have to ask God for His forgiveness and try harder.
The New Year is almost here and it is that time to start thinking about our New Year’s resolutions. Quite often you hear the same ones – losing weight, quit smoking, get organized, be more patient…. This year think along a different line. Make
a resolution that will bring you closer to God your Father. Here are just a few
ideas: 1) Set your alarm 5 –
10 minutes earlier and start your day with God. 2) say a rosary once a week 3)
go to mass during the week 4) say
prayers with your children at bed time 5)
make a commitment to a nursing home, shelter etc…[ "Then
the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39When did we
see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you
did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'] Mt 25:37-40
These are just a few suggestions. Find one that is right for you. In making a resolution that brings you closer to God, this brings you closer to receiving His gift and
this brings tremendous Joy to God your Father. Just ask any parent.
May God bless and keep you in his loving arms this New Year!
