Thoughts for the Day

People were bringing even infants to Jesus that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. But Jesus called for them and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and 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.'

(Church in Wales Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

In my early childhood children were expected to go to Sunday School, sometimes in the afternoon, but often during the morning. They would file out of the Morning Service during the second hymn, hopefully after a children's address by the Vicar or minister, and go off to the church hall. I was always grateful that I didn't have to do this for long, since I joined the church choir and saw what the adults were offered in the way of worship. I grew up spiritually through the words of hymns and psalms in Matins and Evensong. Instead of my Confirmation at 11 years old being a passing-out parade when children are rarely seen again, mine was definitely the beginning of my adult Christian life.

When Jesus says that children are special. Is it because they are open to new ideas? Is it because they are not cynical? Is it because they are curious? Is it because they trust him? Is it because they recognise on one level they are being offered a present with no strings - that they are loved by our Heavenly Father?

Jesus says that we are to receive the Kingdom of God like children. It's the only way for us to enter the Kingdom. We are to have all these attributes - be open to new ideas; not be cynical; be curious; trust God; and know that we are loved by Him. Rather a tall order, perhaps we should start with prayer.

Heavenly Father,
we thank You that You sent Your Son, Jesus,
to reconcile us to You.
May we learn to be like children:
open to new ideas;
ever curious;
eager to learn about You;
and ever trusting.
Amen.