You forsake not those who seek you, O Lord. — Psalm 9:11

Mass Readings: Hebrews 1:12—2:4 / Matthew 17:14-20 

The Lost Child 

In today’s Gospel, a father kneels before Jesus and asks for pity for his son. The boy has often gotten into trouble in one way, falling into fire, and then in another, falling into water. The “lunatic” child causes serious suffering for himself and his father. No doubt the father tried to get his son to come directly to Jesus, but the son refused. 

As the father of seven children, I can certainly relate to this story. Whether we are a parent or not, those whom we love get into trouble, large and small. They act foolishly and cause suffering for themselves and others. We can always help them by getting on our knees and turning to Jesus who has power beyond all others to give our loved ones what they ultimately need, God himself.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, please rescue our loved ones from trouble today.