Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. Matthew 23-9

When my husband died two years ago, my greatest worry was the impact on his sons at the time. He was a good father, and he was their … father.  How could I help them grow into wholeness and happiness with that gap looming so large?

Only time will tell, but what is true of course is that those of us with still living parents must learn a similar lesson: Our earthly parents are limited and flawed. They can't fill the role that only our heavenly Father can. To expect them to do so is idolatrous and will ultimately result in disappointment.

I think that's closer to what Jesus means in this reading. Our earthly parents and teachers take us a certain distance. Only God can take us the rest of the way. It's his perfect love we're yearning for, his embrace we seek.

Heavenly Father, I rest in your love.

Amy Welborn