Reflection for August 12 Tuesday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14

Gospel: Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14

The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me. 

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father. What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.”

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Reflection:

Many of us, if not all, place a premium on recognition. We naturally feel good when others notice our efforts, appreciate our hard work, and commend us for what we do. We nod in silent approval, and deep within, there’s a quiet sense of satisfaction. Recognition in itself is not wrong — but if it becomes our primary motivation, we risk missing something far greater. 

In today’s Gospel, the disciples approached Jesus with a question: “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” In response, Jesus called a little child to stand among them and said, “Unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” It was a simple but powerful gesture — an object lesson in humility.  

Perhaps in that moment, Jesus was silently asking Himself: Do they follow Me because they seek greatness in My Kingdom? Do they follow Me for the applause and recognition of others? Do they understand that following Me means letting go of oneself, laying down personal ambitions, and embracing humility? Do they realize that the very heart of discipleship is not self-exaltation but self-emptying? 

We, too, are often like the disciples. We may work hard for the Church or serve our fellowmen, yet in the depths of our hearts, we may long for affirmation, applause, or praise. But God did not create us to chase after titles, honor, or human recognition. He created us to reflect His heart — a heart that is meek and humble. 

Therefore, in all that we do, let us resist the temptation to seek greatness for ourselves. Instead, let us faithfully and humbly do what is asked of us, knowing that this is what Jesus desires. Recognition, honor, and reward will come in God’s perfect time — not as the goal we strive for, but as a grace we receive when our hearts are set only on glorifying Him.  

When we serve in humility, we find the true joy of discipleship. And in God’s Kingdom, it is not the proud, but the humble, who are truly great. – Marino J. Dasmarinas