Choosing God and Welcoming Children

Josh 24:14-29, Psalm: 15, Mt 19:13-15

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today, we will reflect on two profound themes that define our journey of faith: choosing God and welcoming children into our lives.

In the book of Joshua, we encounter a moment that resonates deeply with each of us. Joshua stands before the people and urges them to make a choice. He proclaims, “Decide today whom you will serve. As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” This declaration is not just a statement; it is a covenant, a commitment that shapes our lives and our legacy. This covenant renewal echoes the promises made at our baptism. Each of us has been called to remember our own baptismal vows, where we chose to turn away from sin and embrace the love of God.

Joshua’s words remind us that our faith is not merely a passive belief but an active choice, a daily decision to serve the Lord. The stone witness he places before the people serves as a powerful symbol. It points to Christ, the stone rejected by the builders who became the cornerstone of our faith. In choosing God, we align ourselves with this cornerstone, building our lives on a foundation that cannot be shaken.

Now, let us turn to the Gospel of Matthew, where we find Jesus embracing children with open arms. He tells His disciples, “Let the children come to me, for the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Here, we witness Christ’s heart for the young and innocent. He blesses them and lays hands on them, demonstrating the value of childlike faith. When we welcome children, we are not merely inviting them into our lives; we are inviting the very essence of the Kingdom of God. Children embody a beautiful dependence on their caregivers, a trust that reminds us of our own dependence on God. When we choose to serve the Lord, we must also become like children in our faith. We are called to approach Him with humility, openness, and an eagerness to learn.

This is not just a metaphor; it is a call to action. We must destroy one foreign god in our lives, perhaps a distraction or a sin that pulls us away from our covenant with God. As St. Clare prayed: “Free me, Lord, from all that keeps me from You!” Let us examine our hearts and identify what stands between us and our commitment to serve Him. Next, I urge you to renew your baptismal covenant. Remember the promises you made before the community of believers. Recommit yourself to the work of God in your life. Each day offers a fresh opportunity to choose Him and to reflect His love in our actions. As we welcome children, let us become spiritual children ourselves. Embrace the wonder and innocence that comes with being a child of God. Each child we nurture is a reminder of the hope and future we have in Christ.

By blessing the little ones, we participate in a sacred mission that transcends generations. As Pope Benedict XVI said, “Children are not property but gifts demanding loving responsibility.” (Address, Dec 21, 2012)We equip them with the knowledge of Christ’s love and the assurance that they are cherished in the eyes of God.

In closing, let us choose God every day and welcome children into our hearts and homes. Let us be living stones, built together in faith, love, and grace. As we serve the Lord, may we also serve the children, for in doing so, we touch the very heart of God. Amen.