Faith like a child. That’s what we should try to attain.
The disciples thought they were protecting Jesus from a distraction of children. No doubt Jesus and the others were exhausted from their travels and time spent teaching and preaching. These parents were only trying to do the best they could for their children by bringing them to Jesus for a blessing. Jesus used this opportunity for a teachable moment.
Jesus did not want the children shooed away. We know from other passages that Jesus loved children. In fact, Jesus called them back and blessed them. Jesus made an example of this moment and it should speak to us as well. We don’t have to be Bible scholars or have done many mighty things to spend eternity with God. Instead, we must receive the kingdom of God as a child. What does that mean, do you think?
Faith like a child. It’s been a while since I was a little kid, but I’ve worked with children over the years and had my own to watch. They trust and love without question. Until they are between 6 and 7 years of age, they don’t question your authority. They look to their parents with respect. That’s what Jesus is saying here.
We need to place our trust in Jesus. We need to respect his majesty. We need to rely on his strength to get through life. We need to believe without question that his promises are true. We need to be all in for Jesus and not try to recreate the wheel and do things our own way. We need to have faith like a child.
Jesus’ words are a bit sobering, “I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” We need to accept Jesus as the way, the truth and the life. He is the only way to the Father. We need to receive him and live as he has commanded. His expectations for us are high, but not beyond our ability.
Faith like a child. After all, God is our Heavenly Father. We should be in awe of him like a young child is in awe of his/her parents. So what do we do with all our head knowledge? Apply it to things of earth. Our hearts should be beating for our creator. We should strive for a deeper relationship with God. We should receive him without question and love him with our whole being.
Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for loving me despite my faults and failures. Such a loving Father you are, and I know your love is without end for me. Such love is hard to comprehend, and yet I know you have no limit. I want our relationship to grow deeper. I want to set aside any doubts and fears. Forgive me when I question you and your responses in my life. Mold me into the person you want me to be. Expand the curiosity and awe I feel for you and your kingdom. Fill me with your spirit as I go about my business today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
