Parents who love their children very much sometimes neglect the important responsibility of nurturing them with discipline. As they are very young and do not know the consequence of their decisions, the Philosopher instructs that we set the limit to their freedom, that would help them a lot in the future, much more than hoarding and accumulating wealth and possession for them: “Don’t give him freedom while he is young, and don’t overlook what he does wrong” (Sir 30:11). The lack of discipline would lead their lives to total destruction and failure in the future, hence he advises to whip them when it is necessary with the intention of genuine love and concern: “Whip him while he is still a child, and make him respect your authority. If you don’t, he will be stubborn and disobedient and cause you nothing but sorrow” (Sir 30:12). Let the Holy Book be the manual for learning and practicing responsible parenthood.

Abba, thank you for giving us wisdom for raising children. Let Your Spirit enable us to adhere to the Bible, in Jesus’ Most Wonderful Name, Amen.