In this Sunday’s gospel we hear the familiar story of Jesus feeding the multitude from five loaves of bread and two fish. The loaves and fish didn’t just feed the crowd until they were satisfied, there was actually food still left over. God provided for them in abundance.
This is symbolic of how God provides for us, loves us, and pours out his mercy upon us in abundance. That’s what a father does. It seems fitting that we reflect on this concept on Father’s Day.
I can’t help but think about how my earthly father did the same for our family. He worked hard and long hours so that he could provide for us in abundance. Now as a father myself, this is what I want to do for my family. I want to provide and love them in abundance. I think we all want that for our families.
One of my favorite musicals, Children of Eden, follows the story of Adam and Eve in the first act. In it, there is a song called, Father’s Day. As I was reflecting on this week’s Connecting Point, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the lyrics of this song:
I never knew that I could feel a love so deep.
Oh, I will be their teacher and I will be their guide
and everything they ever need I’ll be there to provide
and in return they’ll love me and stay forever at my side;
that’s what it means to be a father.
While we may celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday, these words are a reflection of how all parents feel and wish for their children. This only happens by loving in abundance. Let the Father’s abundant outpouring of love, grace, and mercy for us serve as a reminder and challenge for us to show love more abundantly to all.
