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Reflection for Sunday 10/08/06

READINGS
First Reading: Genesis 2:18-24
Second Reading: Hebrews 2:9-11
Gospel: Mark 10:2-16

REFLECTION:
The disciples were trying to make life easier for Jesus when they asked the parents to stop bringing their children to Jesus. They saw the children as unnecessary demands on Jesus’ energy and time. But when Jesus noticed what they were doing he immediately said, “Let the children come to me…” Rather than exhausting Jesus the children seemed to bring him hope and love. “…he embraced them and blessed them, placing his hands on them.” He told the disciples, “…whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” Jesus is asking us to look honestly at our relationship with God. We are God’s children dependent on God for everything. Before God we are needy and powerless. We are vulnerable. To grow as God’s children we need to be receptive and trusting just as young children are. We need to be open to God’s unconditional love. This view must have seemed very strange to Jesus’ disciples but as they saw Jesus embrace and bless the children surely they yearned for the loving protection God offers all God’s children.

1. What could keep you from embracing the kingdom of God like a little child?
2. How do you feel when you hear the wonderful stories of God’s love for you?

PRAYER:
Help me to humble myself as a child before you, Dear God. Help me to admit my complete dependence on you and accept the grace to live faithful to your word. Amen.

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