Childish versus Child-like

Memorial of Saint Jerome, Doctor of the Church

~~~ Zechariah 8:1-8 ~~~ Psalm 102 ~~~ Luke 9:46-50 ~~~

 

Although the disciples did not reveal to Jesus

what they were arguing over, he knew.

The disciples were being childish instead of being child-like.

 

Jesus realized the intention of their hearts...

 

Jesus realizes that the disciples are confused about what is really important.

It will never be about which one of them deserves the most attention...

the best seat at the table...

They are to avoid competition among themselves.

They are to withhold judgment of others.

 

Children hold the key to much of what Jesus wants to teach us.

Children are the hope of the future.

Children represent new life; a life free of negativity.

 

The city shall be filled with boys and girls playing in its streets.

Look to the children; they emulate the kingdom of heaven.

The innocence and purity of a little child serves to remind

us of the goodness of God.

 

The children of your servants shall abide,
and their posterity shall continue in your presence.

 

Children carry forward for generations what has been given to them.

It is important for us to teach them well.

Children see no boundaries real or perceived.

Children reach out to others in need.

Children love unconditionally.

 

 

Every child comes into this world as a unique creation of God.

 

“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me,
and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.
For the one who is least among all of you
is the one who is the greatest.”

Being in the presence of children

 is a reminder of how life was when we too were children.

It would indeed be a sad community when children were not present.

God is present in each of us, but his presence in a child is the most beautiful.

 

Just to gaze at a newborn is to gaze upon the face of God.

Children are a gift from God.

 

Blessings in being child-like as opposed to being childish.