We are reminded today of two very important things in our readings: the necessity of being child-like in order to attain the kingdom of heaven; and the power of the prayer of the child-like person of faith – the righteous person who asks for what he truly needs.
The disciples did not want Jesus to have to be bothered with mere children who naturally were attracted to his calming, peaceful, joyful presence. But Jesus told them not only were they no bother at all – they were actually the perfect example for all of the filial relationship that all are invited to have with God the Father. God is our Father, we are his adopted children – and when we remember that then we can be treated royally as children of the great King!
In the first reading we see that confident, child-like prayer, is always a necessity in one's life – whether one is well or one is sick. The prayer of the well should be songs of praise to God for all his blessings; the prayer of the sick should be for healing according to God's will and design. This is where we see the scriptural basis for the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick: the sick should call in the priests who are to anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord and pray over – so that they may be restored to health and have their sins forgiven.
We are also instructed in the same passage to pray for one another because the prayers of the righteous person are powerful indeed. And when our prayer and our loving concern has brought back a sinner from error then a multitude of our own sins is covered.
Let our prayer come like incense before you, Lord, as we offer praise to you!
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