In Mark Chapter 10, we see that Jesus has a very special place in his heart for children. Below are a few points we notice from this passage:
- Adults brought children to Jesus. Sometimes Sunday mornings can be the most difficult part of the week, especially for families with young children. Keep doing what you’re doing, mom and dad! Your kids will remember not only how you brought them to church, but also how you brought them to Christ in prayer, in Bible reading time, and in your own testimony.
- Second, we see that the disciples get angry that parents brought children to Jesus. Why? Probably because they thought the work Jesus was doing was too important for children. But Jesus makes it clear; spending time with children is no less important than any other part of his ministry.
“Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work.” - In verses 14 and 15, Jesus explains that a childlike spirit is actually an essential part of the Christian faith. In Matthew 18, the disciples ask Jesus who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus says that if adults won’t be converted and humble themselves like children, they won’t even get in!
- In verse 16, we see that it’s not only Jesus who is important to the children, but that the children are important to Jesus. As he takes them up in his arms and blesses them, he’s spending personal time with each of them. He’s not rushed, he’s not waving from a distance. He’s letting them come as close as they possibly can. That time spent blessing the children was important to him. He knew each child by name and loved them dearly.
There’s one key takeaway for our kids from this passage – we can always come to Jesus (that goes for you too, adults!) Jesus welcomes all of us by faith, regardless of our age, our intellect, or our abilities. There are lots of things kids aren’t allowed to do, but kids are always allowed to come to Jesus.
Adults, let’s always create a path where it’s easy for kids to come to Christ!