Jesus blesses little children: Matthew 19:13-15
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
I had been listening to Jesus talking about how important the family is. Relationships between husband and wife, mother and father are of primary importance. This was adult talk, no attempt to consider children here. The conversation was interrupted by the shouts of some little children whose mothers wanted Jesus to bless them. ‘Go away! We are discussing important issues. The children are making too much noise. Go away and play!’ But Jesus intervened. ‘No, don’t send them away. They are welcome here. The Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’ One of the men who had been in deep conversation about marriage said to Jesus. ‘What do these children know about our arguments? They are too young to understand.’ But Jesus disagreed, and went off to play with the children, joining in their fun.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Can you remember a time when, as a child, you knew there was something going on in the family, but no one talked to you about it? (e.g., the father losing his job, or a serious illness of a parent or child) How did you feel?
· Are you able to discuss issues with family members? Do these conversations lead to arguments, or to a better understanding of each member?
· Little children have not learnt to be ‘discrete’. They say things as they are. Do you find this freeing or embarrassing?
· Jesus says, ‘Unless you become like little children, you will not enter the kingdom of Heaven.’ What qualities does Jesus value in children? Do I have these child-like qualities in my relationship with Jesus?
Prayer
Lord, help me to become child-like in the way I relate to you, relying on you for all I need, asking for your protection, growing in love for you and for those around me. Amen.