Let the Children come to Jesus

¹³ And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. ¹⁴ But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. ¹⁵ Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” ¹⁶ And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them. Mark 10

Children are naturally drawn to the kingdom of God.  It is the order of innocence that flows from the throne of God.  They have an awareness of fairness without anyone having to teach them.  They understand love and give it freely.  They share their things and enjoy other children’s company.  NO they are not perfect, but they are drawn to that which is good.

Why were the disciples trying to keep the children away from Jesus?  Possibly because Jesus was healing many sick people and these children had no visible sign of illness.  Perhaps Jesus was talking with adults and children were a disturbance.  Maybe the disciples thought the children were so young, they did not have value as a “need to know” position.  Whatever their reasoning was, Jesus did not agree with their thinking.

Why do we have to become like children to enter the kingdom of God?  It is not that we have to be immature to receive Christ.  It will include a humbling of ourselves.  But the real answer to his statement is found in his actions immediately following this statement.  Jesus took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.  The children welcomed Jesus attention, his affirmation and his affection.

Jesus took them in his arms.  He reached out to them.  We know that jesus is seeking those who are lost.  What happens when a lost person is found by someone looking for them?  They reconnect in an embrace.  Maybe you know someone who has found out that Jesus loves them…then they reject him.

Jesus blessed them.  He spoke words of affirmation.  Becoming a Christian is not just accepting a lot of factual information about Christ.  It is receiving a new name.  To all those who believe in Him, he gives the right to be called children of God.  In Jesus he declares that we are clean, redeemed, more than conquers, gifted, been given authority.

Jesus laid his hands on them.  He let them know that he liked them.  There is an impartation of life that comes from the spoken word.  But there is also much that a person learns by meaningful appreciation.  As Christians we are placed in the body of Christ.  This body is the believers that you attend church with. We become Jesus hands and feet when we serve others.  The hand shake or a pat on the back are ways that affection can be expressed.

Come to Jesus humbly and expect him to affirm you.  Children are naturally drawn to someone who loves them unconditionally and who shows it in words and deed.

Father, thank you that Jesus accepts us in our humility and brokenness. Continue to teach us how to be humble, innocent, and open to your love.  In Jesus Name, Amen.