Scripture:
Reflection:
Hiding things from the learned and clever might seem a difficult thing to do. For example, most parents know much more about their children’s behaviour than the son or daughter realises, but the parents often choose to keep things hidden and quiet. Teachers see much more than any student thinks. Partners keep quiet about some faults and, in general, tend to follow the advice of Pope St John 23rd, who once said, “See everything and overlook a great deal”.
So, today’s reading finds Jesus rejoicing in this idea of ‘hidden things’ and their discovery by others – but it’s with a twist.
No longer is the core of God’s plan to be something to be ‘learned’ or subject to esoteric theories and interpretations. It is not a new ‘law’ in the sense that it can be codified, learned in such a way that it can be recited by heart (but ignored in living) and finally interpreted through various perspectives and then debated.
No, God’s plan for our good now and in eternity is something so radically simple that those with an open mind, open heart, and open will are the ones most likely to ‘see’ it and discover its power.
Jesus finds such openness in children playing, but it seems to be the dynamic of their play that inspires him to such a prayer as we hear today. Playing together seems based on openness to the other, inclusion, welcome, acceptance of difference, and unity forged by a common task – these seem to be the dynamics that not only enable children to overlook a great deal but which are needed to build the Reign of God in our world as well.
Of course the message – revealed to those whose faith allows them to hold onto the above values, but hidden from those who prefer their own ways and opinions – is not a written one but rather the message is Jesus, and learning the message requires lifestyle changes, openness and humility.
He hides nothing from us if we are humble enough to be ‘mere children.’
Fr. Denis Travers, C.P., is the Provincial Superior of Holy Spirit Province, Australia.