Saturday, August 17, 2002
19th Week in Ordinary Time
1st Reading: Ezk 18:1-10, 13, 30-32
Gospel: Mt 19:13-15
Little children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on
them with a prayer. But the disciples scolded those who brought them.
Jesus then said, "Let them be! Do not stop the children from coming
to me, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to people such as these."
So Jesus laid his hands on them and went his way.
Commentary
Popes, kings, presidents, all visiting dignitaries are welcomed and welcome children. It is the natural way to get in touch with the very essence of a society. Jesus goes further when he says that only becoming like a child will make us ready to enter his Kingdom. We realize that the child we all have inside makes us open, alive, trusting and loving persons, at the same time vulnerable and happy. Look at the world from your inner child's perspective and you will get close to God's vision, your optimism and creativity will flourish. God and people will love you more, making your heart fill up with joy. But avoid crying and disturbing when adults need silence and rest; think of others. otherwise you will be left abandoned in the "nursery school" forever.