COVID-19 has turned our normal routines inside-out — or perhaps it’s more fitting to say outside-in.
During this time, we are forced to give up many of the things we enjoy, like movie theaters, concerts or restaurants. But this time away from those things allows us to take a step back and think about what is most important.
God’s grace brings good out of even the most tragic situations. This time of pandemic has personally given my family an opportunity to engage more deeply with each other and more deeply in our prayer.
Evenings that would have been spent going to sports practices or games are now open for family dinners and talks on the porch. Questions that would have been ignored because we were all “too busy” are now being discussed.
At the same time, some problems can arise during this time, such as:
And that’s just to name a few.
Brothers, we are being presented with a huge opportunity. Here are some ways we can be better fathers and husbands during this time:
You may be thinking, “This all sounds great, but what are some concrete things I can do to put my faith into action?” Here are some starting points:
As Catholic men, as Knights, we are entrusted with the protection of homes, of our families. It is important to protect our families. The consequences of shirking our family responsibilities can be dire. Satan wishes that we do nothing.
Those of us who are fathers have a duty to protect our children — right now. During this challenging time, we can help them to avoid destructive patterns of despair that they can fall into when they face further challenges in life. I believe one way we can help is by making this time one of the happiest in their lives, a time when they draw close to us and to their Heavenly Father.
This could be one of the most awful times ever for you and your family. But it may be the biggest opportunity that you will ever have to teach your children to be joyful in all things. And it’s because of your faith as a loyal subject of the King of Kings, as a Knight of Columbus.
Share your story of how your council is helping strengthen people’s faith and offering support during this time. Email knightline@kofc.org.
Originally published in a special bi-weekly edition of Knightline, a resource for K of C leaders and members. Access Knightline’s monthly archives.