Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Fr Ramirez SVD – Philippines
Saturday 19th Week in Ordinary Time
A story was told about a parish priest who showed his garden to a man who wouldn’t let his children attend catechism. As an excuse, he wanted them to wait until they are mature to decide for themselves.
The garden was full of weeds that choked the squash, beans and sweet potatoes. The man remarked in disgust: “This is a pitiful excuse for a garden!” The priest smiled with a reply: “I just wanted to wait until the vegetables had a chance to decide for themselves what they wanted to do!”.
In the Gospel of today we heard about the children who wanted to come closer to Jesus but they were prevented by the disciples. It was a culture in those days that women and children were not considered as persons. Jesus demonstrated that God’s love accommodates everyone, including children and those labeled as “little ones”. Moreover, He revealed to them that God truly cares even if they were not playing essential roles in society.
In the present world, it is a human tendency to alienate others and count them out in our community. The inclination is there to let others feel that they do not belong. Relationships are created by criteria and prejudices regarding culture, race, religion and beliefs. As Christians and children of One God we need to manifest that salvation is universal. God did not come only to save an exclusive group of individuals belonging to a particular race or religion. His love is always encompassing.
“Lord, provide us with your manifold graces to draw others to yourself by the lives we live as your followers. Remove and cleanse our prejudices in hindering others coming to you to receive your blessing and healing power. Make us strong in faith and character that they may follow you zealously. As we mature physically and spiritually, may we remain childlike in simplicity and humility which draws us closer into your loving presence. Amen”
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