Humility – Reflection on Matthew 18:1-5, 10 ~
Like you, I have witnessed various holy people’s humility. With Jesus, they have all become, as in today’s reading, part of the community raising the lowest up. Unfortunately, distractions like worldliness can draw us away from wanting to become like Jesus’s example of children. This is especially difficult for wealthy people who are sometimes linked to capitalism and the free market. There is a common belief they have no compassion. However, the movement to become like a child is possible for anyone. I have seen significant generosity of time, talent, and treasures from wealthy people. They are participating in the rebalance of humility, selfishness, and greed so that loving God and neighbor begins to come first. Transformations Jesus suggests can occur from the softening of the heart. I have observed that people who can help those less fortunate can become deeply humble when God and caring for those with little is gently introduced into their lives.
Jesus and the Little Child by James Tissot,
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 18:1-5, 10 – Scripture*
True Greatness
18 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2 He called a child, whom he put among them, 3 and said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
10 “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.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 18:1-5, 10 Reflection – Humility.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 18 passage.
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