I am writing this teaching sitting next to my nine-year-old son, who is lying in a dentist's chair getting a filling in his tooth. I am reading Jesus' words about praying to His Father: "What father among you will give his son a snake if he asks for a fish, or hand him a scorpion if he asks for an egg?" (Lk 11:11-12)

My son is bravely enduring the novocaine shots and drilling, though it is hardly an enjoyable time for him. Yet, as a father, I know that in bringing my son to this appointment, I am giving him "good things." I know the long-term health he gains will outweigh his temporary discomfort now.

Similarly, our heavenly Father is always interested in our welfare, not our harm (see Jer 29:11). We must never allow present circumstances or disappointments to prevent us from praying to our Father with confidence. God will always answer our prayers as we requested — or He will give us something even better than we ask for (see yesterday's teaching). Hence, there is "the necessity of praying always and not losing heart" (Lk 18:1).

My son is finished now, and is grinning at his numb, swollen cheeks in the mirror. He trusted his daddy not to lead him into a situation that would be harmful to him. May we likewise have full trust and confidence in our "Abba" (Gal 4:6).

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, March 30, 2004

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 1, 2004