In a recent Advent meditation, the Preacher of the Papal Household, Franciscan Father Roberto Pasolini, explored the theme of smallness as a source of humility and encounter.

By Isabella Piro and Deborah Castellano Lubov

Reflecting on the birth of the Son of God as a small and fragile infant, Father Pasolini highlighted the strength and greatness found in smallness. He emphasized how God’s choice to become small is not a limitation but a powerful expression of humility.

The theme of smallness was the focus of the final Advent meditation delivered by Father Pasolini on December 20 in the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall. The series of reflections centered on “The Gates of Hope: Toward the Opening of the Holy Year through the Prophecy of Christmas.”

Discovering God’s Greatness in Smallness

Smallness, according to Father Pasolini, is the key to entering the Kingdom of God. It is not a sign of weakness but a quiet strength that allows space for growth and encounter. Just as a seed grows in darkness, smallness is the hidden measure of God’s true greatness.

He explained that being small is a conscious choice by God to create authentic relationships and recognize the uniqueness of each individual. It opens doors for genuine encounters and allows others to express themselves freely.

Embracing Smallness as a Way of Love

Through a reinterpretation of the parable of the Last Judgment, Father Pasolini highlighted the importance of smallness in loving others. He emphasized the need for Christians not only to do good but also to allow others to do good and manifest their humanity fully.

Smallness, he suggested, is a form of evangelization that goes beyond mere actions to create spaces for genuine love and encounter. By embodying smallness, individuals can offer hope and share the message of the Gospel with sincerity and humility.

Transforming Judgment into Authenticity

Father Pasolini also reflected on the idea of suspending human judgments and embracing gratitude and authenticity in actions. By letting go of expectations and comparisons, individuals can experience true happiness and offer themselves fully to others.

He emphasized the value of unconscious goodness and the importance of accepting oneself and others without judgment. In the end, what matters is not the quantity of deeds but the acceptance of love and the journey towards becoming like God.

Embodying Smallness for a Hopeful Future

As the Christmas season and Jubilee approach, Father Pasolini encouraged everyone to embody smallness and share the hope of the Gospel with the world. He emphasized the significance of genuine encounters and the transformative power of humility.

By crossing the Holy Door of the Jubilee with sincerity and humility, individuals can bring great hope to a world in need of love and encounter. The meditation concluded with a prayer for the Holy Year, asking for God’s grace to transform humanity with trusting hope.