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| Link to St Frances de Chantal |
In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father
that one of these little ones be lost."
Many Americans suffer with a sentimentality about infants which borders on idolatry. It manifests in indulging them with sweets and treats, an endless stream of cute photos on social media, and neglect of their discipline. Adults who fail to discipline themselves also fail their children. And the children, in their turn, must learn to walk on eggs lest they offend the feelings of childish adults.
Some of that abuse of children misreads the Lord's observation about children. They are, as he says, like sheep in their naivete and ignorance. And they are easily led astray by careless or criminal adults, who often amuse themselves with a child's vulnerability and gullibility.
The Catholic Church believes children have a right to live with their biological father and mother. This right is built into the structure and definition of marriage. When tragedies deny that right, responsible adults must provide for the orphaned children as best they can. But no child should have to deal with the divorce of their parents or the permanent absence of a father or mother. Women who intentionally bear children without the companionship of the children's father violate the child's rights.
When adult men and women decide to get married, it's understood they will bear children and make every necessary sacrifice to provide for them. If they have not yet learned to work together for the sake of their children, they will learn. But if they intentionally choose not to bear children, they are not married; despite whatever society thinks, or government legislates. It goes without saying that "gay marriage" is an oxymoron, and a mockery of our sacred sexuality.
Realizing that the human race survives because we care for one another, a Christian society is oriented toward the needs of the neediest among us, especially including children. It prepares children to assume their responsibilities as adults by the Lord's principles of discipleship. Capable individuals learn to serve the needs of others ahead of their own.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.