The Courage of Surrender and the Heart of a Child

Deut 31:1-8, Psalm: 32, Mt 18:1-5, 10, 12-14

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today we will reflect on the theme of the courage of surrender and the heart of a child.

In today’s first reading, we will reflect upon the farewell words of Moses, who stood at the edge of the Promised Land and spoke words of encouragement to his people. He urged them to be strong and courageous. He commanded them not to fear or be dismayed. In this, we find a powerful message of divine companionship. Moses faced a daunting task. He was about to leave the people who had journeyed through wilderness, trials, and tribulations.

Yet, in his farewell, he did not instill fear. Instead, he instilled courage. This is the courage that comes from knowing we are not alone. It is the courage that stems from divine fidelity. In this world where uncertainty looms, we are called to embrace holy boldness. When we surrender our fears and insecurities to God, we open ourselves to a divine companionship that strengthens us in our moments of weakness. Transitioning from the strength of Moses, we must look toward the heart of a child. Jesus spoke to us about the importance of childlike faith when he said, “Become like little children.” In the innocence of childhood lies a purity that connects us to the divine. To embrace the heart of a child is to open our hearts to wonder and trust. It is to recognize that we are beloved and that we belong to a greater story.

In the Gospel, Jesus highlighted the significance of receiving a child. He said, “Whoever receives one such child receives Me.” This profound truth reminds us of the value of humility and the call to protect the vulnerable. As we receive children into our lives and communities, we are reminded of our own need for nurturing love and guidance. Each child reflects the beauty of God’s creation and reminds us of our divine purpose. Consider the parable of the lost sheep. The shepherd leaves behind the ninety-nine to pursue the one who strayed away. This is not merely a story about lostness; it is a testimony of divine pursuit. It is a reminder that we are never forgotten.

Each one of us has an angel, a guardian who sees God’s face, as Jesus cautioned us not to despise the little ones. In our busy lives, it is easy to overlook the vulnerable and the lost, but we are called to recognize their worth and value. Spiritual childhood invites us to embrace a relationship with God that is marked by trust, dependency, and love. As St. Francis de Sales said, “Do not fear what may happen tomorrow. The same God who cares for you today will guard you then.” It calls us to surrender our need for control and embrace the mystery of faith. When we surrender, we are not giving up; rather, we are opening our hearts to divine possibilities. In that surrender, we discover a courage that transcends our fears.

As we reflect on the courage of surrender and the heart of a child, let us embrace our divine companionship. Let us walk boldly into the future, guided by the gentle hand of our Creator. May we look upon one another with the eyes of a child, showing love and compassion to all. Together, let us journey forward, knowing that we are held in the embrace of divine love. Amen.