Saturday, March 1, 2003
7^th Week in Ordinary Time

1st Reading: Sir 17:1-15
Gospel: Mk 10:13-16

People were bringing their little children to him to have him touch them, and the disciples rebuked them for this.

When Jesus noticed it, he was very angry and said, “Let the children come to me and don’t stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and laying his hands on them, blessed them.

Commentary

In a child’s heart lies a treasure of innocence and goodness. Is it possible somehow to combine the wisdom and strength we have as adults with the innocence we once enjoyed as little children? Jesus seems to be saying that it is easier for the lowly to understand and accept the reign of God. It is certainly easier for a child to say, “Abba, Father.” So if we are to have a child’s attitude to God, Our Father, Christ says we should be like children. “Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.”

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