We see that our Lord not only protects the Israelite community by leading them, through Moses’ guidance, out of Egypt in a timely manner but also provides for them by ensuring their nourishment. Protection and provision are the jobs of those who care for children; it is an essential and fundamental job of parents. We know that, sadly, some people in those roles are not capable of giving this most rudimentary care. Many of us may have had those basic needs met but feel other needs were not met.

Perhaps we tend to blame our propensity for addiction on this. We may read today’s Gospel reading and think, “My family could be likened to the soil among the thorns! It was inevitable that I’d choke!” What I have often heard from those who have matured in their recovery journey is that our parents did the best they were capable of doing. We learn to recognize that we are all human. We are flawed; we grumble, fall short, and are often more self-centered than other-centered.

In contrast, God, our perfect Father, provides for us in abundance! Whether it be through placing us in a loving family, as He did for Jesus, sending us a guide in our recovery or faith, like Moses, or sending us daily nourishment, like manna from heaven, God cannot be outdone in generosity. God’s fatherly love for us is infinitely greater than any human love and we can always rely on Him!

Reflection Questions

• When the Israelites were “grumbling” about their situation they took their complaints to an intermediary, Moses. How do you react when life becomes difficult?
• What is an example from your life when God has responded to your pleas in abundance as a perfectly loving father?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Exodus 16:1-5, 9-15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 78:18-19, 23-24, 25-26, 27-28
Gospel: Matthew 13:1-9

Reflection by Kay P.