Homily Thoughts - June 16

Noisy classroom – right near a hospital

Sirens going all day. Teacher would complain about the noise - how can I teach with this racket?
Until – one day - the teacher’s family had an emergency – wife taken by ambulance - they saved her life.
Told students – sorry I always complained about the sirens – I was listening to the noise instead of thinking about the people.

Nathan challenges David – she is married – how could you turn her into an object of your own pleasure? And, even have her husband put to death?!
Jesus asks Simon – do you see this woman? - no – he sees a category, a sinner – someone who is unclean – who has now made Jesus unclean
Do you see this woman? Do you see this child - who needs a dad!!!

Anyone can have a child – but it takes a special man to be a father!

Few days ago, Phil Mickelson left Philadelphia – flew to SD to be home for his daughter’s graduation. He left at 8pm - arrived 3:30 a.m. shot a 67 in US Open.
Woody Allen once said 80% of life is just showing up – and when dad is there, it is
good.

Dad’s are so important – despite what society says!!! It is well documented what happens to many children who don’t live with a dad.

Key Roles of Dad - 5 P’s

1) Provider: a sense of security – everything was going to be OK because dad is here

2) Participator – How are you doing??? How was school, Need help with homework? A nurturer

3) Playmate - Sundays a day to play with dad – would play any sport – brother, sisters & dad: our time together.

4) A Principled Guide: Honesty: treat others with dignity and respect - Put God 1st!

5) Preparer – Getting ready for life’s challenges - want a car? Go to work! Value of money. Failure: Mickey Mantle is a star, yet he failed 3 out of 10 timesyou’re your best & keep trying. Life lessons.

I have been reminded from time to time that, as a spiritual father, I will be accountable to God for what I have done - and what I have failed to do.
Father of family – important spiritual role - God will hold them accountable for how they raise their children.

A father is respected because
He gives his children leadership . . .
Appreciated because he gives his children care . . .
Valued because he gives his children time . . .
Loved because he gives his children the one thing they treasure most – himself.
Happy Father’s Day!