Following up on the concluding idea of last week about how personal interaction and relationships are giving way to “things”. Saw an interesting advert on PBS showing toddlers being given tablets or cell phones to learn. Subtle message that if one wants to be a good parent the kids “need” the latest electronic device. Think there is also the thought that by giving the child that device, the parent can focus on other activities. Reality is that raising a family requires direct interactions with the children. It can't be passed off to a distracting device. That means teaching, reading, talking, listening, playing, touching, etc. Human love that can be understood and nurtured. Not sure but think many of the young families at Church each week are following this path. Can also be reasonably sure that families today continue to experience similar stresses to those of their parents. Is there a solution? Of course. Goes back to one of the oldest admonitions in the Bible: Love God above all things and trust in Him with your whole heart and soul. Really? Snapshot answer: When the Bible characters FULLY trusted in God, He made sure His plan for them was made manifest. He was there, brought them peace even in difficult times. It is that peace that enables parents to get through difficult times knowing that our Lord is with them, making things happen. Look what happens when the folks “did it their way” no matter how well intentioned... Abraham and Sarah being one story. Jacob another. By the way, the idea of opening our hearts to do the will of God cuts across our whole life, not just one piece. That means jobs, careers, wants vs needs, raising the family, everything. We also have to remember that we are sons and daughters of God, we are in the family business and are to do His will for us (which is better than anything we can imagine) and we are tasked with bringing His light to the world including sharing all blessings, etc. Keep that thought in mind for next week. Spoiler: It also has something to do with carrying out Fr. Mark's assignment of last week. Be the best steward, shepherd you can be; and as Father Mark tells us: Put God first; be Catholic. Reflect the light of our Lord to all those you encounter. We pray that God bless you and prosper all you do in His name.