their angels[1] in heaven always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.”
COMMENTARY.
The love of Jesus for children. How touching is the tender affection shown by our Blessed Lord for little children, the young ones of His flock. What an encouragement, too, for those who seek to guard them from the dangers of the world, and who train their minds in the ways of God! He pressed these little ones to His Heart, and, laying His sacred Hands on them, blessed them. Now, what was His object in blessing them? The mothers begged His blessing for their children, in the hope that it might preserve them from sickness, or early death. But our Lord’s object was far higher. He imparted His divine blessing to these little ones, in order that they might remain humble, innocent and pious, and become worthy members of His kingdom. It was because they are simple, humble, believing and innocent that our Lord loved children so much.
Those for whom the kingdom of heaven is intended. Our Lord did not say it was intended literally for children, but for such as they — not merely for children in age, but for those who are childlike in heart, simple, believing, and humble.
“ Suffer little children to come unto Me.” This command was given for all times. Parents, and those who represent them, ought to bring their children to Jesus; they ought to take care that they are, first of all, admitted into the Church by holy Baptism; that they learn to know and love Him by means of a Christian education; and that, as soon as they are capable of receiving it, they are united to Him by Holy Communion, and strengthened in virtue by the imposition of hands and anointing of Confirmation.
Christian teachers. Our Lord’s behaviour to children imposes on those who teach them the imperative duty of always loving the children committed to their charge in an especial manner, as the favourites of our Lord; of trying to be a real blessing to these little ones by word and example; and of never being turned from this duty, either by the weariness of the burden, or the ingratitude with which parents may repay their services. To lead children to Jesus is the highest ideal of Christian education.
Our Lord's Omniscience. He knew why His disciples were disputing, and what vain thoughts they were fostering in their hearts.
Humility is a beautiful and necessary virtue. He who wishes to be a follower of Jesus must renounce pride and be humble of heart
- ↑ Their angels. They have angels who are to be their guardians, always gazing on the Vision of God, and always with God; and these angels will rise up and accuse those who scandalize or despise the little ones.
