Scripture:
Reflection:
Today’s readings could seem to be a paradox, which is a self-contradictory statement or situation.
The book of Sirach, sometimes called Ecclesiasticus, is part of the wisdom tradition in the Catholic bible. Ben Sira, a Jewish scribe, loved the law, priesthood, Temple, and divine worship. In his manuscript, written in the second century BC, he writes about the individual, family and community, and their relationship with one another and with God.
In the first reading, Ben Sira reflects on the abundant gifts that humans received from God plus their responsibility to avoid evil and remember that God’s eyes are ever watching. If the gifts in this reading sound familiar, the early Christian church identifies them among the gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, fear of God, counsel, understanding, and knowledge of the Spirit.
Jesus, in Mark’s Gospel, is surrounded by the little children. Imagine this scene for a moment. Jesus resting on a seat and children surrounding him, laughing, dancing, everyone talking at the same time, giving him hugs, some even sitting on his lap. The disciples, trying to protect these few moments of rest for Jesus, attempt to send the children away. His message to the disciples is harsh: let the children come to me because whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.
So, Ben Sira speaks of how we must live as adults, but Jesus says we must be childlike if we are to enter heaven. While this seems to be a paradox or contradiction, both characteristics can exist together. God expects us to be good stewards of the gifts we received in our creation. If we conduct ourselves as adults while acting humbly, remaining teachable and trusting in God, then we have accepted the Kingdom of God like a child.
Mike Owens is coordinator of the Passionist Alumni Association and a member of the Migration Commission of Holy Cross Province. He lives in Louisville, Kentucky.