7/18/18 - revealed to the childlike

Today's Readings (Audio)

I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth,
for although you have hidden these things
from the wise and the learned
you have revealed them to the childlike.

Wise and learned people have the handicap of being accustomed to figuring things out for themselves. This is very different from receiving revelation from Jesus. It is can be frustrating for the wise and learned among us that there is no credit we can take for figuring out what Jesus is try to tell us. In fact, the more we complicate matters, the more his revelation eludes us. 

Yes, theology can be built on that which is revealed to children. Sometimes that theology as complicated. Ask most seminarians and they'll be happy to agree. But the core revelation, the kerygma, is a revelation received through faith. Think of Peter. Flesh and blood did not reveal to him the identity of Jesus. It was revelation by faith. Think of great saints throughout history, who, though illiterate, instructed popes. Even the science of theology must be approached by a little way, in humility, like a child, or else all progress will be illusory.

No one knows the Son except the Father,
and no one knows the Father except the Son
and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.

When we approach God as little children we avoid the dangers of pride. 

For he says:
“By my own power I have done it,
and by my wisdom, for I am shrewd.

Unlike Assyria, we have no illusions. Children trust in their Father. They see that it is his goodness at work in their lives. Like good children, let us be thankful for the power of the Father at work in us.

For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe (see First Corinthians 1:21).

This also means we have no excuses when it comes to understanding our faith. If we have struggled in the past let us approach God's word with a new humility. Let us receive his revelation with a new and greater trust.

The Lord will not abandon his people.