Importance of Laying Hands and Blessing Children

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:13-16*

*First Reading : Sir 17:1-15*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 103:13-14, 15-16, 17-18*

*Importance of Laying Hands and Blessing Children*

*1) A Gesture of Divine Favor and Protection*

In the Bible, laying hands is often a sign of imparting God’s favor, protection, and blessing. 

When Jesus laid His hands on the children, He was not only welcoming them but also bestowing God’s grace upon them. 

This echoes the Old Testament practice where blessings were conferred through touch, such as Jacob blessing Ephraim and Manasseh (Genesis 48:14-16).

*2) A Symbol of Spiritual Transmission*

Throughout Scripture, the laying on of hands is associated with the transfer of authority, anointing, or divine blessing (Numbers 27:18-23, Acts 6:6). 

By laying hands on children, Jesus demonstrated that blessings are not just words but involve a real spiritual impartation of God’s goodness.

*3) The Personal Touch of Jesus*

Jesus did not merely speak a blessing over the children from a distance—He physically embraced them and laid His hands on them.

This personal, affectionate gesture highlights His deep love and care for the little ones. 

It reminds us that God's blessings are not cold or distant but deeply personal and intimate.

*4) The Role of Parents and Spiritual Leaders*

Just as parents in Jesus' time brought their children to Him for a blessing, today’s parents and spiritual leaders have a responsibility to seek God's blessing for the younger generation. 

This includes praying over them, guiding them in faith, and ensuring they grow in the knowledge and love of God.

*5) Jesus as the True High Priest*

In the Old Testament, priests would lay hands on people as a sign of intercession and divine blessing (Leviticus 9:22-23).

Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, personally blesses the children, showing that He is the true mediator between God and humanity (Hebrews 4:14-16)

*6) The Important Message*

Jesus’ act of laying hands on children and blessing them is a powerful reminder of God’s love, favor, and protection over the innocent. 

It emphasizes the importance of personal spiritual impartation, parental responsibility, and the necessity of receiving blessings with childlike faith. 

This passage calls us to embrace the young with care, pray over them, and ensure they grow in the faith under God’s blessing.

*How is my care for the younger ones?*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*