Dear Parishioners,
“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22) The Father’s blessing was not a reward for good work Jesus had done. At this point in his life, Jesus had performed no miracles, taught no multitudes, called no disciples, cured the sick or cast out demons. All of that lay ahead. The Father’s blessing here is an affirmation of Jesus in front of everyone.
What child does not long for such a blessing from their parents? All too often parents wait for the child to accomplish something before affirming them or bestowing a blessing on them. Surely, Jesus received many blessings from Joseph and Mary during his childhood. At his Baptism, he received it from his heavenly Father as well.
So parents don’t wait for your child to be successful, affirm and bless your children today… because as every child who has received such a blessing knows, it can make all the difference for a lifetime.
- Deacon Robert
Rev. Stephen Hook is Pastor of the Pastorate of the Visitation which includes the Catholic Churches of Pasadena, Maryland: St. Jane Frances de Chantal (Riviera Beach) and Our Lady of the Chesapeake (Lakeshore). He is assisted by Associate Pastor Rev. John Belinki, Deacon Howard Klohr, and Deacon Rick Clemens. To learn more about our pastorate, please visit www.catholicpasadena.org.
