The Feast of the Santo Nino, for the Filipino, is connected to the faith we received from the missionaries of Roman Catholicism in the 16th century. It is a faith that has kept these seven thousand plus islands united under one Church; we are a people because of it.
The gospel chosen to be read (Mark 10:13-16) for this feast is echoed in one of the hymns in the Mass, "Let the little children come to me". It is a reminder that we are to become like little children so as to enter the kingdom of God. Read the relevant articles indicated below , and use the rest of the page as your guide for reflection.
- Workshop: The Feast of the Holy Child
- Mag-aral Tayo: Hayaan Ninyo ang mga Bata
- Bibliya Tagala: Tulad ng mga Bata (Markos 10:13-16)
1. The image of the Santo Nino reminds us that the kingdom of God is for those who can accept it as a gift, not as something that is grabbed but as something to which one opens oneself to and welcomes with joy.
Reflect: God's reign of justice and peace begins with the acceptance of Jesus into one's life as Lord and Master. It is He who should direct our lives and by whose teachings and commands we are to live. Do your resolutions for the year 2012 reflect this commitment to the Lord?
2. The image of the Santo Nino reminds us that we are called to be like children. St. Therese of the Child Jesus teaches us that holiness need not be complicated: it calls for simplicity, loyalty, joyful adherence, generosity even in little things -- qualities that one can find in children. Our life may be unexciting and filled with small matters. But that is precisely the door to the little way.
Reflect: Make a list of the ordinary things that you usually do at home, at work and at play. After completing your list, examine it and think: the way of spiritual childhood is to incorporate these small things into your life as a Christian by intending to do these things for love of God. The little way is the way of the ordinary.
3. Children know how to be thankful for a gift given to them
.Reflect. If you have not done so yet, make a list of the things during the past year that you wish to thank God for. The list can include people, events, things received, improvements in your life, etc. Thank God for them including them in your thanksgiving prayer after Mass.
