Q: How is it possible that a Father who is all loving and whose love endlessly abounds is able to enter into our human realm and love us despite our transgressions and imperfections? I have been searching for Christ’s love and forgiveness in the sacramental life, but this is holding me back. I am pursuing a deeper, more intimate relationship with God, but I cannot grasp how I can be loved. — Maddie

Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC:

God’s immense love for us is something that has puzzled people over the ages.

Psalm 8:5 sums it up this way: “What is man that you are mindful of him, and a son of man that you care for him?”

We are God’s beloved children, and since God is an infinitely loving Father, his love never gives up on us, even when we sin.

But what might be a more basic reason for his loving us?

One answer: We are made in his image, so when God the Father looks at us, he sees something of the Son and the Holy Spirit in us.

This is akin to a dad who loves his children in part because they remind him of his wife.

So be confident that you are lovable!

If you need more convincing, just look at a crucifix and remember that Jesus went on the cross for love of you. God the Father asked him to do that.

It could also help to look for a wise woman or mentor with whom you speak. Or look for a good weekend retreat; that would be a good opportunity to encounter God and his loving presence.

Books such as The Father, by Father Mark-Mary Ames, CFR, might be worth a look, too.

I hope that some of this helps. Count on my prayers.