Pulpit & P
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We can learn from the children
Children are not the focus of scripture. But we can learn from them according to what Jesus said about children. People were trying to get their babies blessed by Jesus, and the disciples were not letting them. When Jesus saw this, he rebuked the disciples. Then Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Luke 18:15-17 To make an important distinction, Jesus did not call us to be like children; he told us that we must receive his kingdom like children. To get a good understanding of this, think of how kids receive gifts.
I was just at my grandson’s birthday party, and he was excited to receive gifts. He wasn’t too proud to receive, and he didn’t suspect foul play. When kids receive gifts, they receive gifts readily with trust, enthusiasm, and thankfulness.
There are a number of ways kids can receive gifts, but I believe the way Jesus had in mind is receiving a gift without pride, with trust and thankfulness. Kids will receive gifts readily, with hope and expectation, too. When talking about receiving God’s kingdom, there is a lot of expectation, wonder, and humility. We must express humility and thankfulness for the wonderful gift of God.
It is also a mindset change to think we need to be like children in some ways. We often think we should just grow up and not be like children. That is true in many respects. But in receiving the gift of the kingdom of God, we should be like children. We can receive the kingdom with hope, thankfulness, joy, and without pride, just like our children or grandchildren.
Kids and grandchildren are the pride and joy, well, most of the time. I appreciate the energy they bring, their innocence, and the wonder they have about discovery. I have noticed that one of the best ways to make kids smile and bring joy to their lives is by being involved with them. In these ways, we can be like children toward God and his kingdom. He wants us to be involved with him, to seek him, and to love him with all our heart. So, if you want to enter into God’s kingdom, receive his gift like a child, with trust, thankfulness, and without pride.
— Doug Baty Westside Christian Church
