One such child

0:05

Children of the Earth

Today is Friday the 2nd of October, the feast of the Holy Guardian Angels, in the 26th week of Ordinary Time.

Josh Garrels sings, ‘Children of the Earth’: ‘The older we become, we must become more like a child’. Reflect on the qualities of a child as you begin to pray. Can you bring yourself as utterly dependent on God the parent today?

Children of the earth

Once dust but now alive

Are living in tents of flesh and bone

We hold a spiritual fire

Set a flame in my heart

Illuminate the darkest hours

Where I wait before the dawn

To see the glory and the power

Of the Lord

Alleluia, Alleluia

Alleluia, Alleluia

The older we become

We must become more like a child

Believing there’s a land that lies beyond

All the things that we’ve seen

Make my mind free from fears

You know I can’t do it on my own

The way is high but we could fly over

When you heal our wings

Alleluia, Alleluia

Alleluia, Alleluia

4:58

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.

Matthew 18:1-5, 10

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

‘Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven.’

6:18

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The disciples come to Jesus with a question about greatness. Jesus responds in an unexpected way, placing a child in their midst. As you begin this time of prayer, think about the different communities of which you are a part: your family, workplace, parish, or circle of friends. What qualities are most valued there? What does true greatness look like in those places?

Jesus points to a child as an example for his disciples. A child can be full of trust, curiosity, and wonder, receiving the world as a gift. As you spend time with this image, what traces of that childlike spirit remain in you today? When do you feel most open to surprise, gratitude, or wonder? Is there something you once delighted in that you have lost touch with over the years?

Jesus invites his disciples to see things differently. His words challenge familiar ways of measuring success, importance, and achievement. As you hear the Gospel again, notice which words or images draw your attention. Is there an area of your life where you are being invited to grow in humility? What would it mean to approach that situation with the simplicity and openness of a child?

9:44

Matthew 18:1-5, 10

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

‘Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven.’

10:49

Jesus welcomes the little ones and holds them close. As this prayer comes to an end, speak with him as you would with a trusted friend. Share whatever is on your heart. Perhaps there is a desire for greater simplicity, trust, or freedom. Ask Jesus to help you receive his kingdom with openness and wonder, and to recognise the dignity of those whom the world so often overlooks.

13:19

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen