Perhaps we can remember from our childhood occasions when the entire class of students was punished for the misbehavior of a very few. At the time, we probably felt that it was unfair and unjust. After all, we hadn't done anything wrong! In ancient Israel, most believed that the entire community or nation was punished collectively for the sins of a few. Guilt was even passed down from parents to child for several generations. Ezekiel signaled a change: from now on, he insisted, each person was responsible for their own sins rather than those of others. There would be no more collective punishment. In our own time, we have no control over the behaviour of others and should not try to force them to behave in what we think is an acceptable manner. If we live our own life by the highest possible standard, we will be an effective and convincing witness to truth, justice, and decency.

In ancient society, children had no status, honour, or dignity. They were vulnerable and defenseless, and were usually the first victims during plagues, famines, or wars. By blessing them in front of the others, Jesus gave them dignity and status, even insisting that we should imitate their openness and trust in accepting the kingdom of God. They accepted Jesus more readily and eagerly than many of the adults around him. Growing up isn't always a grand thing — we should keep a bit of the child in our hearts even as we grow old. It is very clear that Jesus did.