Enkindle the Flame

“Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Mark 10:14

What does it mean to have a childlike faith? Let me ponder this for a while because it is so important to Jesus. He said, “Whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” (Mark 10:15) 

Our grandchild is already three years old. My husband likes to bring him around, walking to church, lighting a candle in prayer for me, saying hello to the staff at the parish office. I asked Luigi why he carries the little boy when he is so heavy already. He answered because he likes to see his little face with its many expressions. The last time they went walking, the adorable child came into the house with a huge smile on his face and his eyes were crinkled as he recounted to me what he saw and did. So much joy for simple things. 

In Ephesians 1:3, St. Paul wrote, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens…” And then in verse 18, “May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened, that you may know what is the hope that belongs to His call, what are the riches of glory in His inheritance among the holy ones.” 

Do we have a childlike joy, enthusiasm and delight for the blessings and gifts our Father has for us? Or have we grown too blasé, tired and weary, disheartened and even disillusioned to even think about being grateful? How to get back the joy and eagerness of our first love for Jesus? I think taking the time to sit with Jesus, wasting time with Him as a new bride can sit contentedly with her husband, just relishing the nearness and companionship, will enkindle the flame. After all, Jesus will not be outdone in generosity. Whatever time we give to Him, will come back in a hundredfold blessing and favor. ♥️♥️♥️