Bible reference : Mark 10:13-16
Once, some people brought some children to Jesus to bless them. He did not feel uncomfortable in the presence of children, nor did he consider it to be a bad attitude or superstition on the part of those people.
But some of his disciples, wanting to avoid Jesus from any possible discomfort, rebuked them for this attitude. It was natural, in human eyes, that such an important teacher (rabbi) as Jesus would not be bothered by children. Even more so in that time, when the youngest were not seen with good eyes as we see them today.
But for Jesus, these children were considered precious.
Jesus did not drive the children away, on the contrary, he was indignant with the disciples for having this attitude. He said:
Let the little children come to me. Do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly, I say to you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. (Mark 10:14-15)
To reflect on : Jesus loves children and is interested in them.
Each of them has an inestimable value and we must guide them towards God.
- God loves everyone, regardless of age. He wants us, big or small, to be part of his kingdom with the dependence, trust and simplicity of a child.
- Children are not innocent, as we know, but they are humble, simple, believers and dependent. Still, that is not what makes them perfect. They need to turn to Christ to belong to the Kingdom of God. Lead the children around you to Jesus.
Meditate and read : Matthew 18:1-4, Matthew 11:25, Colossians 3:20.