A theme that emerges for me from these readings is the importance of moms and dads. I recall a prayer that was shared with me years ago. The prayer goes something like this: The fact that my mom and dad met and loved each other, whatever the circumstances, is just a small part of the miracle of my existence. Indeed, our parents play an important part in our lives and the readings today give us opportunity to reflect on them. For most of us, it is our biological parents who lead, carry, teach and sustain us from our beginnings. As we grow, others also assist in this process, but it is our parents who are there to bring us through these tender stages to the point where we can take care of ourselves—and even take on the process of having and raising children anew.

My own parents made a great home for myself and my siblings, which included being welcomed and reverenced from the beginning of life. We were nurtured with the food we needed to grow, and with the education we needed to be successful. We also lived close to the church and parish school, where we passed many hours at Mass, classes, sports, and all the things that kids do. I still have warm feelings for the school and church-Our Lady of the Lake—and for the good people who, with my own parents, raised us in the practice of the faith…and taught us how to be good people!

I have, of course, become painfully aware that this good upbringing that my siblings and I enjoyed is not always the case. And so, the metaphors and language of mother and father in these readings can also cast a shadow of darkness and fear. Some even seek other metaphors or examples for the care and concern of the Lord.

As I reflect on the metaphors offered in the scriptures today more deeply, I see that the Lord calls me to be grateful for the good I have received through my parents, and others who have nurtured my life of faith. These are expressions of God’s love and goodness. At the same time, I realize that, as good as it is to have a loving family, I am called to go beyond the metaphors and memories of love and care. “Even should she (a mom) forget, I will never forget you.” (Is 49: 15). To me, this means that the Lord not only cares for me, but--as St. Ignatius points out in the Spiritual Exercises—never leaves me without the grace I need for salvation (Spiritual Exercises #320). What is more, the Lord always keeps me in mind, sustaining me moment by moment. The Lord’s love and care for me—and, I believe, for each person—is continuous and unconditional. The love of moms and dads is a great gift; the love the Lord gives is even deeper!