13 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." 16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
Thoughts: It really is amazing how God showed his care, protection, and love for little children. Jesus was born as a child. Most Greek gods who came to earth, and most Jewish scholars had the messiah coming as a full-grown king. Gdo became vulnerable to show his care for children. He protected children by saying anyone who caused one to stumble would be better to have a millstone around his neck. Here he showed he wanted to be around little children- not just scholars, kings, and the rich. God loves people irrespective of all our sophistry and power (which seem as nothing to Him anyway). So, we should also value children. In our day children are neglected in order that the adults may both work (as opposed to many cultures where one parent stays home with them). Children are neglected by being placed in a daycare- which is like a daily foster home. Adults sacrifice for their children by driving them to so many events/sports/talent builders. Yet sometimes children need to rest, play, and simply be with their parent. Looking back, I wish I had taken more time to go fishing with my son than to go watch him play football in front of a lot of people. Let us resolve to not walk past children but to care for them. Church can be one of the few places where people who are not related to you and are of a different generation see you. This past week I was amazed to see one of our newer retired members who worked for NASA coming to VBS (Galactic Blast) and talk about his work there and show pictures. The kids absolutely loved it!
Prayer: Lord, give me grace to be concerned about the least among us- those who are helpless or dependent.
John Calvin abridged: This narrative is highly useful for it teaches us that Christ not only receives those moved by a holy desire and faith come to him, but also those who are not old enough to know they need his grace. The children may not know that they need his blessing- but when they come to him, he gently and kindly receives them and dedicates them to the Father. The laying on of hands was an ancient and well-known sign of blessing. Since the inferior are blessed by the better (Heb. 7:7), the parents ascribe to him the office of prophet and show they believe he may dispose the Spirit of God and His gifts upon their children.
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