“I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to childlike” (Lk. 10:21).
Gospel refers to two groups of people: “Learned and Wise” (Pharisees and Scribes) and “Childlike” (Disciples).
The learned and wise (Pharisees and Scribes) might feel self-sufficient and proud. Intellectuals freely decide that they are not interested in learning about God, whereas the childlike are. The childlike (disciples) are socially low standard of living, economically poor and educationally illiterate but the mysteries of God are revealed to them because of their humble disposition of heart.
Revelation of the mysteries of God is opened to all. It is the disposition of the receiver (humility) that makes the reception of them possible. For Example, the shepherds were childlike, but the magi were intellectuals (but childlike in heart) were able to welcome newborn child into the heart.
Humility is such a credible advent virtue/discipline that helps us to welcome Lord into the manger of heart. Amen.
Fr. Jerry Vallomkunnel MCBS