We can imagine the joy the disciples experienced when they shared with Jesus their missionary fruits. However, we know that the real joy is not experienced from having success but in being with God and in God. This is borne out of a genuine relationship with God.

In verse 21 of today's Gospel reading, Jesus spoke about the correct attitude in our relationship with God. The illustration is based on the simplicity of the children as compared with the so called 'the learned' who can be over-confident of their ability and rights. The simple little ones have trust in God's power. This also implies that we do not have a claim on God because of our ability but it is God who is so generous in revealing His love to us. Thus, knowledge of God is a gift to be received in humility (1 Cor. 1:21). This privilege which we enjoy is for anyone who realizes that this entails a great responsibility in continuing Christ's mission that is we are to become a sign and instrument of the revelation of God's love and make others become like Christ.

A perfect example of this is our Mother Mary whose feast of Our Lady of the Rosary we celebrate today. Her attitude towards the living out of her discipleship is reflected in the first reading.