Jesus’ teaching continues, and I realize this is a controversial text for many. Jesus speaks of a man and a woman leaving their parents to become one. He points back to creation and uses the two sexes as the explanation for the marriage union. This passage, explaining God’s intention, can be a real blessing for couples during a wedding ceremony.
For those of us who have divorced, these words can sting. I found myself staying in an abusive relationship for many years because of my fear of divorce and what that meant for my future. Jesus would not have said this if he didn’t mean it. Marriage was designed to be holy. I’m not going to try and sugarcoat Jesus’ words and say they don’t apply, because when we start doing that for one thing, other challenges to God’s word appear. Instead, this is a sin problem that we need to take before Jesus.
I’m going to focus today’s reflection on children. Jesus clearly was offended when the disciples tried to keep the children away. We recall from a previous teaching Jesus’ sweet spot for kids. But what did Jesus mean when he said, “For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.”
Children are often seen as a picture of relative innocence, but none are without sin. Yet, their faith seems pure. They haven’t lived long enough in the world to become cynical or distracted by shiny new objects, methods, and mindsets. It seems these days we have to look to much younger children to find the pure in heart. I recall growing up and being sheltered from so much of the “grown-up” world. I remember my mom saying she didn’t want me to “grow up too fast.”
So what does it look like to have faith like a child? From my experience teaching children for over four decades, they are like sponges, and they are hungry to learn more. They trust the teacher and show respect. I’m not sure adults can be described like this. We are always looking for shortcuts, questioning authority, and are proud of our independent thinking.
If we trust what Jesus says, we need to be careful of our adult-like behaviors when it comes to our faith. We need to trust and believe in Jesus and his kingdom with the innocence of a child. It’s okay that we don’t understand every last detail of how everything works. We simply need to trust the Creator, our Savior.
Solomon’s wisdom from Proverbs 3:5-6 may be helpful here. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” When we realize we don’t always know what’s best, and choose to trust the one who does, good things happen. The kingdom of God can come into better focus.
Let’s pray. Heavenly Father, thank you for how you have created me. Forgive me when I go my own way and fail to approach you with childlike faith. I am in awe of you, amazed by all your great works. Your wisdom is hard to fathom and accept sometimes when it challenges us or our understanding. Thank you for each direction and course correction. I want to see your kingdom clearly. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
