The gospels are clear that children and young people have something important to teach us. Jesus welcomes and blesses children, identifies them as the ones to whom the kingdom of heaven belongs and instructs adults to become more like them.
In this story, the only account of Christ as a child, we witness Jesus’ developing sense of identity and mission, as he spends time in his Father’s house. A striking reminder of the importance of listening to young people’s voice and experience.
One such young voice is that of Ashley, who works for the Jesuit Hakimani Centre, one of CAFOD’s partners based in Kenya. The centre supports local communities in speaking up for their rights, as well as providing training in a variety of issues such as climate justice and sustainable farming.
Ashley offers these powerful words on the centrality of faith in her life:
“Faith to me is the foundation of my life. It is both my anchor and my guide and basically shapes every aspect of how I live… My faith motivates me to continually grow in wisdom and character, because each day it provides an opportunity for me to learn and deepen my relationship with God.”
In this Jubilee Year, let’s pay attention to younger people, remembering that they have something valuable to teach us. May praying this mystery, help us to grow in wisdom and understanding of God’s call in our lives.