Gospel in Art: Do not stop the little children coming to me

Christ Blessing Little Children, by Charles Lock Eastlake, 1839 © Manchester Art Gallery

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 17 August 2024
Matthew 19:13-15

People brought little children to Jesus, for him to lay his hands on them and say a prayer. The disciples turned them away, but Jesus said, 'Let the little children alone, and do not stop them coming to me; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.' Then he laid his hands on them and went on his way.

Reflection on the painting

Today's Gospel reading is sometimes read during a baptism because it feels so fitting. When children are baptised, the Lord is welcoming them into his family, the community of believers we call the church. They are receiving immense blessings and grace from the Lord. In today's Gospel reading, Jesus wanted to welcome the children brought to him by their parents for a blessing, but the disciples were turning them away. Perhaps they thought Jesus only had time for adults. However, they completely misunderstood Jesus, who said to them, 'Let the little children alone, and do not stop them coming to me'. Jesus wanted children to be central to the community he was forming. He desires them to be at the heart of the church's life and worship.

Sometimes, even during Mass, we might find the noise or crying of children distracting. However, it's important to remember that a church without the sounds of children is a church without a future. A church without their crying is a church that is dying! We need the presence and energy of children and young people to keep our community vibrant and alive.

In our painting from 1839, the artist Charles Lock Eastlake depicts Jesus at the very centre of the painting. His serene and gentle expression reflects his love and compassion for the children around him. Each of his hands expresses the essence of his mission: one hand is 'holding and protecting' the child on his lap; the other hand is 'reaching out' to the other children. The door is truly wide open, with children streaming into the room to receive a blessing.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/matthew-19-13-15-2024/