Bless the Children

Conflict is everywhere; and much of it is due to the sin of pride.  We know it as the first of the 7 capital sins, taught in the primary catechism class.  Some folks always want to come on top of every confrontation, and of course sometimes being opinionated is good, but not always.  One thing should always be, that of respect for your enemy, political, martial or otherwise.  What can be done about it then?

 

Only one thing, do the opposing virtue: humility, the opposite of pride.  This is where the children can help us adults; just observe them, transparent and innocent of any ulterior motives.  You can't really despise a child, right, no matter how unruly?  They are naturally humble.  Whenever we see children, we welcome them with open arms.  This is what St. Mark recorded when the approaching children were rebuked by the disciples, perhaps they thought that they were a hindrance to Jesus:

 

Jesus said to them, "Let the children come to me, do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God.  Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it."  And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands upon them (Mark 10.13-16).

 

Let's not be so hard with our children; gently teach them the ways of God.  They are God's gift to all of us.  Bless the children.