. . . turn and become like children. . .

The recent tragedy in Sandy’s Hook reminds us of our responsibility to protect children and the greatness of that obligation. Jesus uses children to help us understand that is not just a need for today but is in essence just one commitment of many to insure our place in heaven. It is necessary that children trust us “adults” to take care of them, to protect them, nurture them in the study of math, language, science and faith. As in the time of Jesus, children must have the guidance and protection of us in order for them to survive and thrive.

If all sins against humanity are sins against God, then sins against children are the greatest sins against God. What we saw at Sandy’s Hook was the complete absence of God in the heart of one man. While it will take a lifetime for those immediately involved in this tragic event to deal with their grief,

we can be assured that the circumstances of this day are now gone. The person responsible at Sandy’s Hook can hurt no one again, not ever.

It is now the time to begin the process of healing, for the families directly and indirectly effected, for law enforcement to review their procedures, for the schools to double check their priorities, and for the politicians to dig deep into their conscience’s. Moms and dads across the country will no doubt engage in conversations about the safety of their children. And we will all pray for peace on earth and good will toward all.

(Matt, 18; 3 – 5)

¹Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.

“: the child is held up as a model for the disciples not because of any supposed innocence of children but because of their complete dependence on, and trust in, their parents. So must the disciples be, in respect to God”. (CSB)

(Mark, 10; 14 – 16)

¹When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it." Then he embraced them and blessed them, placing his hands on them.

“i.e. in total dependence upon and obedience to the gospel. . .” (CSB)

May the love and peace of God be with you in this time of great need.

1 = NABRE

CSB = Catholic Study Bible

by David E.Gonzales