A reflection for the Memorial of the Guardian Angels.
In today’s Gospel, the disciples ask who is greatest in heaven. I can almost hear them trying to figure out their chances of being on top. Then Jesus calls a child over to stand among them. This is unexpected. Now they have to consider someone they may not have given much thought to.
Jesus warns them not to despise one of these little ones. Their angels, he says, always look upon the face of his Father. On the Memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels, I imagine a child watched over with gentleness. So I have to ask myself how I treat all of the people God cares for with such love.
I wouldn’t say I “despise” anyone. On the other hand, I can hurry through a conversation because I’ve already decided I’m just not interested in what the other person has to say. I love to support a ministry for people in need, but I am not comfortable interacting with the homeless man who has come to ask for help. I miss these moments while they’re happening right in front of me.
Jesus tells the disciples to receive the child. The child has nothing to offer to their conversations about theology or evangelization. The little one’s need attention might distract them from the other plans they had. Receiving someone also means listening when they say they don’t feel welcome in our community, even though we thought we were doing a pretty good job.
Guardian angels remind us that God cares for people we barely think about. We won’t know the burdens someone carries. We can still offer patience and respect, starting with the person standing in front of us.
Who has been easy for us to overlook today? May our guardian angels help us pause long enough to see that person as God does.
Some questions for reflection:
- Who do I tend to overlook when I’m busy or uncomfortable?
- When has someone made room for me and helped me feel seen?
- What could I do this week to welcome someone I usually pass by?
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