A reading from the gospel according to Matthew 19:13-15

13 Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked them,
14 but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
15 After he placed his hands on them, he went away.

Reflection: Children

Good News: The Kingdom of Heaven belongs to the little ones.

1. Elders especially parents bring children to Jesus.
• In our times, millions of children are abandoned and abused. Who will take care of them? Who will bring them to Jesus?

2. Some adults like the disciples prevent children from approaching Jesus.
• As an elder or parent, do we hinder these little ones from knowing Jesus? Let us check our behavior. Unknowingly, maybe we are part of the problem why many children grow up without having any idea of Jesus.

3. Jesus welcomes the little ones.
• Jesus does not reject anyone who comes to him. The children or the “little ones” have a special place in His heart.

4. Jesus proclaims that the kingdom of heaven belongs to children. Why?
• Normally children are by nature weaker than adults. Let us remember that one of the most common themes in all the teachings of Jesus is about welcoming and taking care of the weaker section of the population – those whom people consider unimportant or marginalized because of poverty or tradition. During the time of Jesus and even today, these kinds of people have very little value in the scheme of things. To them go the compassion of Jesus.
• Children are simple and innocent individuals. Below a certain age, they are exempted from criminal laws by virtue of their innocence. In the beginning, Adam and Eve were simple and innocent beings and they live with God in paradise!
• Children are vulnerable and they totally depend on adults for survival. God wants us to depend on His divine provision and protection.
• Children are curious and open to new teachings. More often than not, they are the exact opposite of adults when it comes to “teachability”. How true it is that the most important things in life are learned in grade 1!
• It is fun to look at children. They are always handsome or beautiful. They have an innate ability to make adults smile or laugh.

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In this Gospel reading, we read about a moment when parents brought their children to Jesus, seeking His blessing. The disciples, perhaps thinking they were doing what was best, tried to prevent the children from approaching Jesus. However, Jesus corrected them, saying, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” This brief but profound passage offers us invaluable lessons about faith, humility, and the heart of God. 1. The Innocence and Purity of Children First and foremost, this passage highlights the innocence and purity of children. In the eyes of God, children are not merely small or insignificant. Rather, they embody the very qualities that are cherished in the Kingdom of Heaven. Their pure hearts, untainted by the complexities and burdens of the world, represent the kind of faith that God desires in all of us. Children trust easily, love freely, and believe wholeheartedly. They remind us that faith is not about knowing all the answers, but about trusting the One who does. 2. The Inclusiveness of God’s Kingdom Jesus’ invitation to the children also reveals the inclusiveness of God’s Kingdom. In a society where children were often seen as less important, Jesus turned the cultural norms upside down by welcoming them with open arms. This act challenges us to reflect on how we view and treat others, especially those who might be overlooked or undervalued. God’s Kingdom is for everyone, regardless of age, status, or background. No one is too small, too young, or too insignificant to receive God’s love and grace. 3. The Importance of Childlike Faith Jesus’ words, “for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these,” call us to embrace childlike faith. This does not mean being childish, but rather adopting the qualities of a child in our relationship with God—trust, dependence, and openness. Children naturally depend on their parents for everything. Similarly, we are called to depend on God, recognizing that we cannot navigate life on our own. Childlike faith also involves approaching God with a heart full of wonder, free from cynicism and doubt. It is about believing in God’s goodness and love, even when we don’t understand everything happening around us. 4. A Call to Protect and Nurture the Young This passage also serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect and nurture the young. Jesus’ willingness to bless the children signifies the value He places on them. As His followers, we are called to do the same. Whether as parents, mentors, teachers, or community members, we have a duty to guide and support the younger generation, helping them grow in faith and character. 5. Jesus’ Love and Compassion Lastly, this scripture beautifully illustrates Jesus’ love and compassion. He was never too busy to care for the children. In the same way, Jesus is never too busy for us. His love is personal and tender, and He desires to bless each one of us, just as He blessed the children. May this gospel passage always reminds of the value of childlike faith, the inclusiveness of God’s Kingdom, and the boundless love of Jesus. Let us strive to approach God with the heart of a child — full of trust, openness, and humility — and extend His love to everyone, especially the young and vulnerable.

See also: Matthew 19:3-12 Reflection