Welcoming a Child - New Evangelizers

Then [Jesus] took a child and had him stand in front of them. He put his arms around him and said to them, “Whoever welcomes in my name one of these children, welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me, welcomes not only me but also the one who sent me.” Mark 9: 36-37

Advent activities help us prepare anew to welcome the baby Jesus, but there’s another way we can welcome him. Whenever we reach out to children in Jesus’ name, that is, in the loving way he would, we’re welcoming Jesus.

We can welcome children in any number of ways—especially during Advent. Maybe we purchase toys or warm clothes for children in need to make their holidays a little brighter. Maybe we take extra care to include our own children in holiday preparations like baking cookies or shopping trips. Religious activities are great opportunities to teach children about our faith, but anytime we treat a child with respect and love we’re welcoming Jesus.

Come to think of it, we’re all children of God, no matter what our age. Anytime we welcome another—whether with a simple smile or by taking a moment to extend a simple courtesy—we’re welcoming Jesus.

What about ourselves? We, too, are children of God. Maybe we’ve neglected that part of ourselves we fear is just not good enough, the part we wish were more mature, more adept, or more graceful. What if we welcome the vulnerable little child within ourselves, the one that hasn’t dared show his or her face since being laughed at or rejected years ago? This Advent, what if we embraced the emotionally young part of ourselves that’s longing to feel loved and accepted? If we do, we’re welcoming Jesus.

Prayer: Lord, you welcomed the little, vulnerable ones. Today I welcome you.

Reflection: How can you welcome Jesus? What child most needs your loving attention today?

© Barbara Hosbach, 2016

Barbara Hosbach

Barbara Hosbach, freelance writer, is co-chair of the CJ Chapter of the Catholic Writers Guild and member of the Catholic Press Association. Hosbach’s articles have appeared in a number of Catholic periodicals. Her latest book, Your Faith Has Made You Well: Jesus Heals in the New Testament, explores what happened when Jesus healed and what it means for us today. Your Faith Has Made You Well: Jesus Heals in the New Testament and Fools, Liars, Cheaters, and Other Bible Heroes