Skip to main content

Becoming Like Little Children

Fr. Gabe Cillo reminds us of Jesus’ words: “Unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 18:3). The path to holiness is not about power, recognition, or external perfection, but humility of heart. St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the Little Flower, embraced this Gospel truth in her “Little Way,” choosing hiddenness, trust, and simplicity over greatness in the eyes of the world.

Holiness is possible in every state of life — even for those who appear weak, hidden, or unable to “do” much. God does not look at outward signs but at the heart, where free will chooses Him in love. True greatness is found in becoming small, humble, and content with wherever God has placed us.

Fr. Gabe shares how St. Thérèse intercedes for us in the struggles of prayer — even she admitted she found the Rosary difficult at times. This teaches us that sanctity is not about perfection but about persevering in trust, relying on God’s grace. Her example continues to draw souls to Christ, including those far from the Church, proving that the “Little Way” is powerful beyond measure.

Like children before their Father, we are called to rely on Him completely. In doing so, we find joy, peace, and the true meaning of holiness. May St. Thérèse guide us in her simplicity and help us trust that God can raise us to sanctity, no matter how small we may feel.

Added to Favorites!
Added to Watch Later!

You might also like...

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121125.cfm On December 11, the Marian Fathers celebrate the spiritual founding of our community, dating back to 1670 when St. Stanislaus Papczyński made his solemn oblation and offered his whole being to God and to the Blessed Virgin Mary, conceived without original sin. In his vow, he promised to promote and defend her honor even to the cost of his life. Today, Fr. Matt reminds us that this mission continues.
The Gospel of Luke is called the Gospel of Mercy, and today’s passage reveals why. When Jesus healed the bent woman on the Sabbath, He showed that mercy never rests. The Lord of the Sabbath Himself chose compassion over rigidity, revealing that the purpose of God’s law is not to bind, but to free.
Fr. Jason Lewis reminds us that every drop of blood and water that flowed from the Heart of Christ is a living fountain of mercy — the fulfillment of the ancient prophecy of Zechariah. Long before Calvary, God promised His people that “a fountain shall be opened … to cleanse them from sin and uncleanness” (Zech 13:1). That fountain is the Heart of Jesus, pierced by the lance of St. Longinus, from which mercy flowed to the whole world — east and west — for Jew and Gentile alike.