Saturday of week 7 in Ordinary Time
James 5:13-20
Ps 140(141):1-3,8
Mark 10:13-16
As James concludes his letter, he emphasizes the power of prayer in times of trouble. He highlights the importance of our actions in changing and enriching lives as instruments of God’s work. It is crucial not to hinder growth and to bring everyone and everything to God.
We should not hinder our children from growing in faith and pursuing God’s plan for them. Just as eagles learn to fly by being pushed out of their nests, children also need to be encouraged to discover and fulfill their unique destinies. While most teenagers are eager to leave home, some may need a push.
Encouraging grown children to move on when the time comes can be challenging. Sometimes, the issue is not that parents withhold independence, but that children are reluctant to accept it. They may be comfortable at home, with all their needs taken care of, and lack the motivation to face the real world.
Allowing them to stay, especially if they’re avoiding pursuing their goals, fosters irresponsibility and dependency. This is not a loving act, despite feeling like it is. There comes a time when parents must gently hand over the reins and encourage their children to stand on their own feet and face life’s challenges.
Some cases may even require parents to make the tough decision of pushing their children to leave the nest. However, if parents truly love their children and want them to fulfill their potential, bringing them to the Lord in prayer and letting God take control is the best course of action while we guide them genuinely.
PRAYER
May God continue to show you his mercy and compassion in your temporal and spiritual affairs no matter what. May he bless your home? May we always have the courage and the grace to remain with the Lord till the end? May Mary mother of God pray for you.
Amen.
Fr Joseph Osho
