Saturday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
February 26, 2022
Daily Reading from the USCCB: Mark 10:13-16
The scene in Mark’s Gospel of Jesus embracing the children is more than just a “sentimental” image. Jesus just a moment later will say, “Whoever does not accept the kingdom of God as a little child will not enter it.”
It is worth noting that Jesus tells us that the “kingdom of God” is God’s gift to us. It is not something we create or achieve ourselves by our efforts and energy. The gift of God is what God holds out to us. It is part and parcel of the gift of life and care God gives to us.
The words “as a little child” describe how eager children are to receive gifts and to appreciate the marvels their parents provide for them. That’s why parents enjoy watching their children open presents so much. Can we imagine a child refusing a gift or a present? And if so, what would that say to its parents? There seem to be more than a few people in today’s world who believe they can take care of themselves, thank you very much! They think they need no help from God. How blind they are to refuse God’s goodness and the embrace of Jesus.
