Matthew 18:1-4
1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
2 He called a child, had him stand among them,
3 and said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn around and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven!
4 Whoever then humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
“Very young children do not desire authority, do not regard outward distinctions, are free from malice, are teachable, and willingly dependent upon their parents.”
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
I love children. I welcome their perspectives of life. While I have none of my own, my life has been blessed to have a few of these fresh-from-Heaven little people as key characters in the story of my life.
Currently I work with foster children. My job is to transport them to visits with their biological parents and then to supervise the visit. I’ve learned that the younger the child is the easier this process is on them. With few exceptions, these little ones are willing to take my hand or to come into my arms even from the first time that we meet. I can’t address whether or not this is normal behavior or whether circumstances have created in their minds an indifference as to who is currently responsible for them. All that I know is that usually they come with me without much fanfare and often with smiles on their little faces. For whatever reason, these children trust me blindly. They are willing to be led to wherever I take them. They do not ask if where we are going is safe, scary, uncomfortable, sad, happy, dark, painful, or how long the journey. They don’t tell me which way to go, how fast to drive, or ask if there is enough gas in the tank to get us where we’re going. Often, they simply relax and fall asleep, resting in my care, not concerned about their needs because they’re little children and those thoughts don’t even enter their minds. It’s not their job to worry about anything; they’re children.
Hmmmmmm. Is it any wonder that Jesus told us to become like little children if we want to be a part of His Kingdom?
A pondering today.
Shellia Reed's Blog 