Gospel: Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14
At that time, the disciples came to Jesus and asked him, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Then Jesus called a little child, set the child in the midst of the disciples, and said, “I assure you, that, unless you change, and become like little children, you cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble, like this child, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, and whoever receives such a child, in my name, receives me.
See that you do not despise any of these little ones; for I tell you, their angels in heaven continually see the face of my heavenly Father.
What do you think of this? If someone has a hundred sheep and one of them strays, won’t he leave the ninetynine on the hillside, and go to look for the stray one? And I tell you, when he finally finds it, he is more pleased about it, than about the ninety-nine that did not go astray. It is the same with your Father in heaven. Your Father in heaven doesn’t want even one of these little ones
to perish.
Reflection
Humility is recognizing our need for God.
Jesus offers a vision of humility and the significant worth of every individual, especially those who are vulnerable or lost. He calls His disciples to become like children—unassuming, trusting, and dependent on God. Humility is not about putting ourselves down but about recognizing our need for God and valuing others above ourselves. It aligns our hearts with the Kingdom of God, where greatness is defined by servitude and love.
The passage reminds us that no one is insignificant in God’s eyes. Each person holds immense value, and heaven rejoices over the return of even one lost soul. The parable of the shepherd leaving the ninety-nine to find the one highlights God’s relentless pursuit of those who stray. It calls us to embody the same compassion—to seek out, embrace, and celebrate the lost.
In the Kingdom of God, humility leads to joy, and every life is cherished. Living out these principles reflects God’s heart, creating a community where no one feels forgotten or unworthy.
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