As a parent, I want the best for my children. I want them to grow in knowledge—not just of this world, but of the next. I pray for their safety, health, and for them to become adults who radiate light and love to others.
Mary and Joseph must have felt the same way about Jesus. But raising the Son of God surely came with even more challenges. Imagine their panic when they lost Him in the temple. Their child—the one promised to bring love, truth, and salvation—was nowhere to be found. I know the fear that grips me when one of my children is seriously injured or sick. My mind jumps to the worst-case scenario. But God has a plan, and He calls us to trust Him.
Mary undoubtedly struggled to watch Jesus suffer and be crucified. Yet she surrendered to God’s plan for the salvation of all. Had she fought to protect Jesus, she might have spared herself some immediate pain—but at what cost? If she had chosen self-preservation over obedience, she would have realized too late that her actions had cost the world its salvation. Thankfully, Mary had the wisdom to trust in God’s greater purpose.
I want many things for my children, but above all, I want them to reach Heaven. It would break my heart if they became wildly successful yet never spent eternity with God. That’s why we must stay focused on teaching them what truly matters.
Many parents work tirelessly to provide the best for their children—carefully selecting schools, making sure they have the latest gadgets, cars, and experiences. But how many take the time to talk to their children about God? How many pray as a family or make Mass a priority? Too often, Sunday beach trips replace church, and dining out seems more exciting than receiving Jesus in the Eucharist.
My youngest son just received his first reconciliation and will receive his first Holy Communion in May. We celebrate these milestones, but what about the hundredth time? Sadly, for many children, their first reconciliation is also their last, and receiving the Eucharist becomes an occasional afterthought.
Jesus Himself warned, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” Society pushes us toward money, power, and pleasure—attainable goals, but dangerous if they come at the cost of eternity.
We are all born with a longing for something more, but we don’t naturally understand God. We depend on our parents, friends, and loved ones—or sometimes even strangers—to guide us. That’s why we should never stop learning about God and His plan for salvation.
I love reflecting on His Word, which is why I write my blog. I hope that something I share might ignite a spark in someone else, drawing them closer to God. If even one person grows in faith because of my words, every hour I spend writing will have been worth it. I believe every parent would say the same about raising their children—that all the struggles, sacrifices, and prayers will be worth it when they see their kids standing beside them in paradise.
