Monday of the First Week of Lent - March 10, 2025

Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18 Matthew 25:31-46

As I read today’s readings in preparation for this reflection, I felt a twinge of anxiety. These are classics: dog-eared and beloved in the minds of all Christians. We are talking about The Golden Rule and “Love Thy Neighbor” today. Where to even start?

As my daughters were getting ready for the Father-Daughter Dance, I had them read the passages to me aloud as I brushed their hair. I let my thoughts run free. And perhaps because of the setting, with my children surrounding me, I was overwhelmed by the image of God as parent. He is giving His children rules to bring order and love to the world. He is teaching us about selflessness and being of service to others.

Being a good parent is hard. One of the biggest challenges is establishing structure and order while fostering a loving environment. All children must think at some point, “Why are there so many rules?” But of course, both in our homes and society at large, we need rules to keep order and justice. “Be holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy.” He is teaching us how to live in His image. We are given the commandments to help us be successful. God is modeling the actions of a good and just parent by telling us what He expects of us.

As a parent, another challenge is teaching your children to help others, especially those less fortunate. In today’s Gospel, Jesus says, “Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” I am struck by the image of Jesus teaching his disciples the importance of helping others the way that a good parent would teach: by word and example. Authentic Catholics help all of God’s creation, both mighty and modest.

This Lent I hope to reflect on the image of God as parent, looking out for all of us by teaching us how to live in a world with love, order, kindness and justice.

Q: How do I demonstrate the Golden Rule in my parenting and how I treat others?

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