10/2/2023 (Monday) Today’s gospel reading: Matthew 18:1-5, 10

1 The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?”
2 He called a child over, placed it in their midst,
3 and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven.
4 Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.
5 And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.
10 “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.”

10/2/2023 (Monday) Today’s gospel reflection / Homily / Sermon: Matthew 18:1-5, 10

There is an important paradox in the gospel reading above. We know that children are the smallest of human beings but Jesus calls them the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. During the time of Jesus, women and children have no rights. Their voices are not heard. So for Jesus to say that a child is the greatest comes as a huge shock to His listeners.

Jesus was aware that a lot of His listeners were always thinking of themselves. In fact, they brought out the question “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of God?” because they were assuming they were in the best position to be called the greatest. Unfortunately, they were disappointment.

Indeed, children are the face of the living God. They are pure, humble and naturally joyful. Jesus is warning us not to despise them or look down on them. He is also giving us the assurance that they are looked after by angels in heaven. Instead, let us love them, care for them, and guide them that they may grow to be god-fearing people.

The message of Jesus in our gospel reading is change or conversion. He is calling us to become like children who are humble enough to admit their sinfulness and who are dependent to God the Father who protects them and provide for all their needs. Jesus is telling us that only in humility can we be able to recognize our nothingness before God. He is teaching us that only in humility can we be able to give ourselves in service to others.

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