25th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B: A Child Like Jesus

The 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time is a moment in the liturgical year that invites the faithful to pause and reflect on the profound teachings of the scriptures. For year B, the readings for this Sunday present a rich tapestry of wisdom, challenge, and encouragement that speak to the heart of Christian discipleship.

The first reading from the Book of Wisdom (Wis 2:12, 17-20) confronts us with the stark reality of the righteous person's life, who is often beset by the wicked. It is a poignant reminder of the suffering that can accompany fidelity to God's law and the courage required to stand firm in the face of adversity. This passage echoes the trials faced by many prophets and ultimately foreshadows the suffering of Christ himself.

The Responsorial Psalm (Ps 54:3-4, 5, 6, and 8) offers a response to the first reading, providing a prayerful refuge in God's protection. The psalmist's trust in God's saving power serves as a model for our own faith, especially when we face trials or feel surrounded by hostility.

The second reading from the Letter of James (Jas 3:16—4:3) addresses the community's internal conflicts, highlighting the destructive nature of jealousy and selfish ambition. James contrasts this with the "wisdom from above," which is pure, peaceable, and full of mercy. This passage challenges believers to cultivate peace within their communities and to seek God's wisdom in all things.

Finally, the Gospel according to Mark (Mk 9:30-37) presents a teaching moment between Jesus and his disciples. As they journey through Galilee, Jesus predicts his passion and resurrection, though his disciples do not understand. The narrative then shifts to a lesson on true greatness, where Jesus places a child among the disciples, symbolizing humility and service as the path to greatness in the Kingdom of God.

Children are important in life. Without them, no species can continue. This is why the Catholic Church has combated abortion and any dangers against children. Granted, some in the Church have failed to protect them against predators, but for the most part, most Catholics are on the right track in regard to defending children. Jesus says if someone receives a child they receive Him. This is a huge statement. Jesus compares a child to Himself. Children are innocent. While they are conceived with Original Sin, they are innocent. They are blank slates.  This is why adults are to blame when children go wayward. They are molded by adults to be adults. So if they behave badly, it is the fault of adults who associate with them directly. 

This is why we have to be innocent like Children.  There is a difference between being a child and being childish or immature acting in a feral way.  Jesus calls us to be humble and accepting like children are. We must also be patient and accepting of all children. Unfortunately, there are some clergy, religious, and lay people who frown upon children at Mass. They complain about the noises of babies and the antics of small children which can be distracting. Kicking them out or embarrassing their families is not the way to go.  In the early Church, we read in the New Testament how they had households. This means children were present.  Crying children at Mass is a sign that the Church is alive and continues to be reborn just like the sound of a crying baby at birth is a sign that there is new life. 

Any Catholic, clergy or not who has an issue with babies or children at Mass needs to get a mental health evaluation and spiritual direction.  I will be blunt on that.  The kids and their families are not the problem if the children are behaving in their natural state. We must do everything to protect children and be careful what we teach them and what they see from us.  Children are not conceived racists, sexists, rapists, killers, thieves and so on. This is learned behavior.  Again, we must be careful with children and what they see and hear from us.  

These readings collectively urge the faithful to reflect on the nature of true wisdom, the call to live righteously, and the importance of humility and service. They remind us that following Christ may lead to challenges and misunderstandings, but ultimately, it is a journey toward eternal life with God.

As we meditate on these scriptures, we are invited to examine our own lives in light of these teachings. Are we willing to stand for righteousness, even when it is difficult? Do we seek the wisdom that comes from God, or are we swayed by worldly ambitions? How do we embody the servant leadership that Jesus exemplifies?

The 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time offers a moment for deep spiritual introspection and renewal. It calls us to embrace the paradoxes of the Christian life: to find strength in vulnerability, wisdom in simplicity, and greatness in serving others. As we continue our liturgical journey, may these readings inspire us to live out our faith with courage, love, and humility.