Shining Examples

        A life-sized sculpture titled ‘Adoption’ at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels captures the full essence of fatherhood. It depicts St. Joseph stepping away from his role as carpenter to give his undivided attention to 4- or 5-year-old Jesus. Looking intently at one another, Jesus and Joseph share mutual respect knowing full well that their growth is both in the giving and in the receiving. Embracing his fully human nature, Jesus looks to his adoptive parent as mentor, model and teacher. In his fully divine nature, Jesus’ gaze towards Joseph appears to represent what it means to live, love, and act as a child of the Father. 

      What also strikes me about father and son in the work is the definitive bond that transcends all materials used. Joseph shares a connection with Jesus that cannot be ignored. You can clearly see that the seeds of God’s love have been laid in Joseph’s life and in the acceptance of his responsibility as a dad. The same can be said of us. Jesus’ role in our lives invites us to a deep reflection into a full relationship with the heavenly Father. In other words, the Son of God can bring to us hope and growth that far exceed any other event. This does require that we remain open and become active participants in the process. Spending time with God through prayer is a beautiful place to start. Additionally, looking to father figures whether biological dads, adoptive, foster parents, or otherwise can help as we strive to recognize and honor opportunities as they arise.

       Role models along with the fullness of the Holy Spirit sown into our hearts at baptism provide examples, witness, and grace for us as we choose how to take part in our calling as children of God. Infused by gifts of wisdom and understanding, right judgment and courage, knowledge and reverence, wonder and awe, we are provided the foundation necessary to live a life in Christ.

      Looking at my own father as well as Diana’s dad, I realize that living by example is not a bad thing at all. Both taught me that living life with God at the forefront can yield great fruit both within the family and with the stranger. Both remind me that being witness to and growing from others can bring about a fuller appreciation for all of God’s creation.

     

      On this Father’s Day, we recognize this is what great role models do every day.
They put aside their own needs in favor of embracing their responsibilities as parents and mentors. 
They become shining examples in the world.  They remind us of the One, the Father of all.


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Endless Blessings,

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Deacon Luc and Diana Papillon 

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