Thoughts for the Day

Jesus Blesses Little Children

People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’ And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

Characteristics are the things that distinguish us from one another. Some are passed down from parents, like eye colour or blood type, as well as size and shape. But there are also characteristics that distinguish children from adults. Unless taught otherwise small children are usually open to new experiences and can be fearless in touching things like a snail or a nettle for the first time. Their eyes focus on the smallest of things, from the tiny pattern on a piece of material, to a miniscule ladybird. They are trusting and will reach out to a dog or a cat or another human being. They will react to a smile particularly smiling eyes. Young children are also open and honest, not having learnt to hide their reactions. All of the characteristics not inherited can be changed though through bad experiences, unfortunately.

In today's reading, the children come to Jesus. The text says the parents want Jesus to touch them, perhaps to heal them. But it may have been for a blessing. Why do the children want to see Jesus though? He wasn't offering sweets or toys, he was offering himself - he must have seemed kind and gentle to them, with open hands to welcome them, and a smiling face to encourage them. We have seen the way Jesus told parables, and who cannot believe he didn't have a fund of stories, or could whittle a doll or boat for them out of wood. We need to use our imagination when thinking of his life outside the words in the Gospels.

Jesus says we are to "receive the kingdom of God as a little child". So this means we are to embrace God's kingdom of love fearlessly; we are to trust implicitly all that Jesus teaches us; we are to reach out to Him with an honest heart asking forgiveness for our mistakes; and let the measure of His love fill our whole life.

Lord Jesus Christ,
may we come to You this day
eagerly accepting Your invitation
to receive the Kingdom of God like a small child.
May we realise that You call us to
put our complete trust in You,
and that this means we should be fearless
in changing our life to meet Your criteria.
Help us to be honest with You,
and courageous enough to admit our faults.
Amen.