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This is an unlikely duo to be celebrated together, at least as we read the New Testament. It seems they were regularly at odds, even if and when they could work, if not together, at least not in opposition. But this Tuesday is their great joint Solemnity—the patron saints of the Church in Rome.

Yes, today we honor our Dads, as best we can. We let them grill out (so we can eat, of course!); we let them wear the shirts and shorts and socks they want (so long as we aren’t within 3 miles of them!); we say we love them and give them a present (yes, another tacky tie…). For some of us, the best we can do is trim around the headstones, lay flowers, and pray. But nevertheless: long live Father’s Day!

The Bible is filled with images of trees of paradise, and it’s really worthwhile exploring them for what they reveal.