Gospel
Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14
1 The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” 2 He called a child over, placed it in their midst, 3 and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. 5 And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me. 10 “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father. 12 What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? 13 And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. 14 In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.”
Historical Background
Matthew 18 is part of Jesus’ teachings in Galilee, likely in Capernaum, where He addresses His disciples directly. The question of “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” reflects the disciples’ misunderstanding of greatness, shaped by societal hierarchies and honor culture in first-century Judaism. Jesus responds by placing a child in their midst—a radical gesture in a world where children had no status or power.
Theological Context
This passage reveals the upside-down nature of the Kingdom of God. Greatness is redefined through humility and childlike trust. Angels watch over the “little ones,” affirming their divine worth. The parable of the lost sheep emphasizes God’s relentless pursuit of the marginalized and the wandering.
Jesus teaches that humility, care for the vulnerable, and restoration are central to His mission and the character of His followers.
Learning Lessons
True greatness lies in humility, not status. Children symbolize dependence, purity, and openness—qualities essential for discipleship. Every soul matters to God; no one is expendable. Spiritual leadership must reflect the Shepherd’s heart—seeking the lost and protecting the weak.
The Child in Our Midst
He placed a child in the circle wide,
No crown, no robe, no pomp, no pride.
“Be like this,” the Savior said,
“Not the mighty, but the meek are led.”
The angels guard the smallest soul,
Their worth beyond what minds can hold.
And when one sheep has gone astray,
The Shepherd walks the rugged way.
So teach us, Lord, to stoop and see
The face of heaven in humility.
To welcome hearts both bruised and small,
For in Your love, there’s room for all.
Lord Jesus,
You placed a child before Your disciples to teach us the way of Your Kingdom. Help us to embrace humility, to welcome the vulnerable, and to seek the lost.
Forgive us when we chase greatness by the world’s standards. Renew our hearts to reflect Your mercy, Your tenderness, and Your pursuit of every soul. Let us never despise the little ones, for in them, You dwell. May our lives echo Your love—bold in compassion, gentle in spirit, and faithful in grace.
Amen.
Pericope:
THE GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM / THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP
Matthew 18:1-5 / 10-14
Gospel Acclamation
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
