From today’s Scripture: “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.” —Mt 18:10

When my son was born I remember vividly holding him as he stared at the leaves of our oak tree. The sun was shining and the wind was making the shadows of the branches sway and dance. I recall how he looked upon this display with such curiosity and such mystery. In it, I too was brought to recognize that which was always before me. The gift that quickly becomes the mundane. The heavenly that, perhaps due to my busyness, seems to lose its shine.

Yet Christ, when we lose sight of a heavenly vision and begin to ask questions of status—who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven—reminds us to look upon those faces that carry such wonder, humility and joy. These are the faces to whom angels attend and God extends his love. Yet how easy it is to lose this in a world that fails to see the connection between heaven and earth.

Let us pray: Lord, you have taught us to pray, “Your kingdom come.” Give us eyes to see this kingdom in our midst.

Today’s author is Nathan Smith, the director of ecumenism for Glenmary and field representative for the U.S. Catholic bishops.

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