A Childlike Christian

Reflection for the Feast of Sto. Nino

January 15, 2012

For certain, all of us have memorable experience during our childhood days that we cherish. When I was a child, I always boast my uncle to my fellow friends. His name was Democrito. He was my mother’s favorite younger brother and where I also got my name. My mom always tells beautiful stories about him that he became like a superhero to me. Most of the time I also mention his name to my friends while we are playing not to trick me because the time my uncle comes they will be punish. He was my idol and I trust in him. But for all my life I haven’t seen him yet and never could I possibly see him since two years ago my relatives in Mindanao told us that he already passed away because of serious illness. He was my childhood hero.

As an adult, I treasure those years of being once a child. The character, lifestyle, attitude and the way of dealing with life are those that I missed now. Perhaps, it is the reason why in the Gospel today Jesus told his disciples “anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." (Luke 18:17).  He is like telling us that we should have to imbibe the character of a child for us to enter the kingdom of God.

Looking back at my experienced I found some interesting qualities of a child. First, a child is simple and innocent. I mean, when he decides, talks, thinks it is always as is not complicated. What you see is what you get. He sees things without malice or wicked desires. We can even find in him purity and true love.

Second, a child is faithful. When he believes in someone he is always faithful to him. But it also demands faithfulness of those he look up to. Let’s say for example as regards promises for a child he will keep his promise but he also demands fulfillment of the promise.

Third, a child is so dependent to his parents in all aspects. He knows that he lives because his parents are providing all for his food, shelter, and clothing with love.

Recognizing these characters of a child lead me to truly believe how important it is to be faithful, simple and dependent child of God. In the end it is all our desire to be called children of God, isn’t it?