Mark 10:1-16

“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” (Mark 10:14–15, NKJV)

I love the fact that Jesus loves children. Somehow, I picture children crawling up on Him and coloring His robe with crayons and markers. He watches them and smiles. But the disciples did not share His heart. When parents brought their little children to Jesus to bless them, the disciples rebuked them. They thought they were protecting Jesus, but He was greatly displeased because He loves little children.

Many people do not consider children to be as important as adults. But Jesus holds them in high regard. Unless we are converted and become as little children, we will not enter the kingdom of God (Matthew 18:3). Adults want children to grow up, but Jesus wants us to learn from them. Moreover, if we receive one little child in the name of Jesus, then we are receiving Him.

I think this is why I was so excited about our recent Vacation Bible School. Many neighborhood children attended, and we had a huge staff of volunteers who joyfully served them. The adults were happy to be there, and the children loved the attention. I know that the Lord was pleased.

Children are humble, trusting, and teachable. How can we be more like them?