The Holy Gospel According to Matthew (18:1-5, 10).
The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said,
“Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.” “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.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Reflection: Today is the Memorial of The Holy Guardian Angels. In this Gospel, the disciples ask Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” Jesus answers them by calling a child to Himself and tells them, “Unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Jesus is not telling us to be childish but childlike. There is a big difference. Childish is about being immature and selfish, only caring about yourself and not looking out for others. Being childlike is to trust in God completely, to be humble and to rely on God as a child relies on a loving parent. In a secular world that values power, success and self-sufficiency, Jesus reminds us that true greatness comes from humility, simplicity, and dependence on God. A childlike faith allows us to constantly be amazed at the goodness of God. Jesus also reminds us to care for the weak, vulnerable, and those in need. When we welcome them, we welcome Jesus Christ Himself.
Jesus then reminds us, “Do not despise one of these little ones.” To God, every person matters. Nobody is insignificant in God’s eyes. As Catholic Christians, we are called to protect, encourage, and care for those who are vulnerable, marginalized or struggling.
Today’s Memorial has been observed in the Church since the 16th century. Pope Clement X assigned this Memorial to the first free day following Michaelmas day, (Feast of the Archangels). We know that angels are intermediaries between God and humanity. According to both Tradition and Scripture, God assigns guardian angels to each one of us. Guardian angels guide us on our faith journey, help us in our struggles against evil, and protect us from troubles. They also present our prayers to God.
Action for the Day: As we go about our day, reflect on this Gospel. Ask ourselves do we approach God with childlike trust? Do we value humility over pride”? Do we recognize Christ in those around us, especially in the most vulnerable? Pray for the grace to help you trust in God and be humble. Pray to be the light of Christ and to bring others to that light to build up the Kingdom of Heaven here and now. Also, pray to your Guardian Angel, “Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me here, ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide.”
Amen.
Audio Reflection:
Thank you. God bless.