Fr Marco Lazzaron
he Gospel of today tells us how God looks upon our littleness, and also upon our struggles and weariness. In Jesus’ prayer, the “little ones” are contrasted with the wise and the learned—that is, with those who, in the Jewish tradition, considered themselves experts in the Torah.
The scribes and teachers of the Law claimed for themselves the titles of masters, scholars, and wise men. These titles seemed fitting because they safeguarded and interpreted the Scriptures, and for this reason they saw themselves as the religious elite of the people, those who held the key to understanding God’s revelation.
But Jesus overturns this perspective. It is not the experts, the specialists in sacred matters who truly grasp the mystery of God, but rather the simple, the humble, those whose hearts are open and receptive. The “little ones” are not the ignorant; rather, they are those capable of being surprised and guided. To allow God’s Word to dwell within our lives, we might ask ourselves: even in the Church, do we sometimes risk being seduced by the logic of power, status, influence, and expertise—using these as shields rather than as opportunities for service?
We must not forget that Jesus praises the little ones, those who look at life not through the lens of appearance, and power but who welcome the oppressed. He invites us to be gentle and humble so that we may find rest.
But if we truly want to become men and women of the Gospel, perhaps we should begin by learning from children, recognizing in childhood the key to genuine change. The simplicity of children overcomes arrogance and oppression. This is why the saints recognized God’s tenderness in the way He looks upon our littleness: “If anyone is very little, let him come to me.
Therefore, I do not need to become great; on the contrary, I must remain little, and become ever more so” (Saint Thérèse of Lisieux).
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You who look upon our littleness with tenderness, make us gentle and humble of heart. Heal our struggles and our weariness. Give us the heart of a child—simple, pure, and free from violence—so that we may become men and women of peace. May our lives proclaim You, the gentle and poor King. Amen.