Egyházi Értesítő, 1989 (305-313. szám)
1989-04-01 / 306. szám
(£ugfi$l) Section In spite of cynical comments to contrary, the making of a happy home is far more important and rewarding than either making money or being successful, and this depends very largely on the way the children are brought up. Although Christ is ministry was chiefly concerned with adults, it is surprising that the Gospels record so fully His teaching about children, for no other contemporary literature does so« He had definite views on them and spoke of their significance in the kingdom of God, saying that no one should hinder them coming to Him, for they were the kind of people to whom the kingdom belonged. He defended their simplicity, and vigorously condemned those who broke their spirit, but declared that those who showed them the smallest kindness would not go unrewarded ( St.Matthew 10:^2). He loved children and was never too busy to give them His attention. The atmosphere of the home at Nazareth is reflected in His teaching. There are, of course, many happy homes which make a tremendous contribution to the well-being and stability of the community in which we live, although we hear little of them for they are not "news”. On the other hand, there are homes where children are welcomed as babies but are less welcome as they grow older; and the attention which is their right is denied them, be-^ cause it interferes with their parents' freedom. They must be fitted into an adult pattern of life, thus missing many of the jays of childhood.The tele-, vision set, marvellous as it is, can never replace the story told or read by mother or father^gifts, however expensive or wonderful, can never compensate or be a substitute for love and care. Affection cannot be bought - a fact which some parents learn only when it is too late, and they are disappointed when their offspring want to opt out of söciety.jUnhappiness in the home is caused not. so much by the lack of material things as by spiritual poverty: that is living without love. Each year Mothers Day falls on the second Sunday in May, and is more popular; may its observance help us all, parents and children alike, to fill the gaps in our relationships with love. Let 'loving our "neighbour' begin at home, within the family. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.( I Thessalonians 5:18). Egyházi Értesitő. 1^. 1989 április hó.
