Father, each spring as we observe tiny featherless fledglings pressed against their mothers in their nest, we’re reminded of the human love children experience from their parents’ safekeeping. We thank You for the loving care You extend to us through the preordained parents who’ve provided for us from birth to independence. Thank You for their model of love, sacrifice, duty, protection, and other virtuous qualities needed to properly raise a family. It has greatly influenced the way we raise our own children.
We also pray for those whose relationship with their parent is a role reversal where they must act as the parent when their own parent behaves as a needy or even defiant child. May Your multiplied mercies sustain these caregivers in their ongoing challenging role so that, above all, You are honored and they find deep peace in the midst of the turmoil. Thank You, Father, for our human family, our spiritual family, and for our heavenly family that awaits our arrival on Your appointed day. In the name of Christ Jesus Your Son we pray, amen.