Homily – Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (A)

During the annual Mass for Catholic Schools at the cathedral on St Patrick’s Day, an archbishop recounts a moment with young students.  Processing into the cathedral with his crozier and mitre, one of the children pointed at the archbishop and whispered to his mate’s ear “look, it’s St Patrick!”  Upon further reflection, the archbishop commented on the children’s innocence and capacity for imagination and wonder. 

Reflecting on our own childhood, there are countless times we’ve made similar comments innocently or raised questions without fear.  Youthful memories bring to mind much simpler times, filled with curiosity and unaffected by cynicism.  Unscathed by life’s experiences, children and young people dare to take risks and are unafraid to ask some of life’s deepest questions.

Throughout the Gospels, young people are used by Jesus as examples for his teachings.  Jesus taught his followers, “whoever welcomes a child in my name welcomes me” (Matt 18:5) and “if you don’t receive the kingdom of God like a child, you shall not enter it” (Lk 18:17).  Our Gospel today, continues this lesson on children stating that God, the Father, Lord of heaven and earth chooses to reveal mysteries to “mere children” instead of the “learned and the clever.” 

Without glamourising children and our youth, there is a thing or two we adults can learn from children.  Innocence and wonder characterise childhood but also the disposition of humility and openness.  Unlike children, the learned and clever can be far too prideful (not all intellects), hindering the capacity to receive Jesus as the Son of God sent from the Father.  Childlike attitudes particularly wonder and awe, innocence and humility open us up further to the sacred and greater sensitivity towards the mysteries of God. 

However, that is not to say adults have a reason to be childish!  Rather, Jesus is asking us to be childlike.  Maturity as a human person and maturity in faith manages the tension of growing in responsibility, wisdom and experience but always humble and open to the grace of God.  It is here where the great mysteries of faith are revealed not only from intellect and experience but also with the the humility, trust and wonder of a child. 

By Fr Ian Vergel