Becoming Like Little Children
In today’s Gospel (Matthew 18:1-5, 10), the disciples ask Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus does not respond with a list of achievements, power, or titles. Instead, He calls a child and places the child in their midst. He tells them, “Unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
This response must have surprised the disciples. They were expecting greatness to be measured by human standards: leadership, authority, recognition. But Jesus points to qualities that children naturally embody—trust, humility, purity of heart, and dependence on others.
To “become like children” means learning to trust fully in God’s providence. Just as a child depends on a parent for safety and guidance, we are invited to depend on the Lord rather than on our own strength. Children are also humble; they do not pretend to know everything, and they are quick to forgive and forget. These attitudes are what God values most in His kingdom.
Jesus also reminds us of the dignity of every child and every little one in faith: “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I tell you that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father.” Here, we are called to respect and protect the vulnerable, whether children, the poor, or the marginalized. God’s angels guard them, which tells us how precious they are in His eyes.
This Gospel challenges us to examine our own hearts: Do we live with childlike trust in God? Or do we let pride, self-reliance, and ambition get in the way of true discipleship? To be truly great in the kingdom is to embrace humility, trust, and simplicity—virtues that bring us closer to the heart of the Father.
Key Takeaway
True greatness in God’s kingdom is found not in power or status, but in becoming childlike—trusting in God, living in humility, and valuing the least among us.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, grant us the grace to become like little children—trusting, humble, and pure of heart. Teach us to depend on You in all things and to treat others, especially the vulnerable, with love and respect. May our lives reflect Your kingdom values of humility and compassion. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
