Homily for the Memorial of the Guardian Angels

The questions people ask often reveal their values and priorities. When Jesus' disciples asked Him, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" [Matthew 18:1] it revealed their interest in personal standing and prominence. In His reply, Jesus did something and said something. First, He placed the child in front of them. He said they needed to become like children simply to enter the kingdom of heaven, never mind becoming the greatest in the kingdom.

Jesus' disciples are to become child-like but not childish. There's a significant difference. They will be child-like in the sense of completely trusting the love of God the Father and demanding nothing else, including status and standing. Greatness comes to those who make themselves as dependent on God as children are dependent on adults for their care and well-being. 

Let us pray for a true spirit of humility, recognizing our dependence on God and turning our will over to His divine wisdom and care.