Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? The second paired image — fish/serpent — reinforces the first: no good father gives a dangerous substitute for what is asked. The fish-and-serpent pair also connects to the baptism scene (the dove and the threat from below) and to the disciples who are fishers of men. The point is the same: the Father's responsiveness is not indifferent or malicious; he does not give harmful substitutes for genuine needs. The quality of the gift is guaranteed by the quality of the giver.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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