Embracing the Kingdom with a Childlike Heart

Author: Fr. Nelson Joy Antony Paul Cruz
Childlike Faith
Reflection Date: March 01, 2025 Saturday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Sirach 17:1-15; Mark 10:13-16

Today’s Gospel presents a touching moment in the life of Jesus, where mothers bring their children to Him, seeking His blessing. It was a common practice among Jewish families to bring their little ones to revered rabbis for a prayer of blessing, particularly on their first birthday. Recognizing Jesus as a holy teacher, these mothers desired His healing touch upon their children. However, the disciples, perhaps trying to protect Jesus from the commotion, attempted to turn them away.

Jesus’ reaction is striking. Instead of approving the disciples’ actions, He expresses His displeasure and warmly welcomes the children. Through this encounter, Jesus conveys a profound truth: in the eyes of God, every person is valued equally, regardless of age or status. More than just allowing the children to come to Him, Jesus uses this moment to teach a lesson about the Kingdom of God.

He declares that entrance into heaven requires childlike qualities such as innocence, trust, obedience, and an open heart ready to forgive and love unconditionally. Children naturally trust in the goodness of others and depend entirely on their caregivers, just as we are called to place our complete trust in our heavenly Father. This passage invites us to embrace our identity as God’s beloved children. As baptized members of His family, we are called to reflect childlike faith in our daily lives.

Call to Action for Catholic Living: Let us pray for all the children in our families and our young parishioners, and find time to support parish ministries dedicated to children and the youth.