Thomas Lima csc –
Readings: Ezek 18:1-10, 13, 30-32; Mt 19:13-15
Today’s first reading tells that anyone who is righteous and does what is lawful and right has more privileges in the eyes of God. In the sight of God, all are given the equal privilege to receive the
blessings bountifully. God permits us to choose good or bad.
The one who does evil becomes the enemy of the Lord. The one who obeys his commandments becomes his loving child. God tells us to repent and turn from all the transgressions that we commit against God.
Through the first reading, God is asking us to get ourselves a new heart and a new spirit and turn to the Lord and live. We are selfish. Each time we fall into sin we must confess before the Lord. This is the way of living an authentic life.
In the gospel, Jesus said, “let the little children come to me”, and “do not stop them for it is to such as these that the Kingdom of heaven belongs.” Perhaps, Jesus wants me today to be childlike
so that he can hug me and bless me abundantly. Who are the little children? A child is innocent, dependent, fearful, and obedient. A child always speaks the truth. Though I have grown up to be an adult still I can become child-like in my attitude and in my prayer. A child is loved by all. The gospel invites me to change my life, to cultivate good habits and values to grow in God’s image and likeness.