May 26, 2018

Gospel: Mk 10:13-16
People were bringing their little children to him to have him touch them; and the disciples rebuked them for this. When Jesus noticed it, he was very angry and said, “Let the children come to me and don’t stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and, laying his hands on them, blessed them.

Reflections
Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it In Jesus’ time, children were shooed away from adult conversations. How refreshing to hear that Jesus took children in his arms, laid his hands on them and blessed them. Many of our statues and icons present a sober and stoical Jesus, one not too approachable. Only recently have artists depicted a Jesus smiling or laughing. Yet the historical Jesus, despite his commanding presence, drew children to him. We can imagine children begging to be lifted up, clambering to sit on his lap, and wringing his neck with their arms. May we approach Jesus eagerly like children.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2018