Devotion:
Read Mark 10:13-16.
Jesus teaches that the kingdom of God includes and blesses children. It was the custom for parents to bring their children to the rabbis for a blessing, so of course they wanted to bring their little ones to Jesus. However, the disciples thought the whole thing was just a nuisance. The disciples were trying to protect Jesus’ time and energy, but they had lost sight of His heart and exposed their own heart as well. To “rebuke” someone is a strong word. Under no circumstances were they letting these parents and children near Jesus. But when Jesus saw this, he became indignant (angry) that the disciples were standing in the way. Jesus scoops up the children, embraces them, and blesses them. Then He announced that the children were better kingdom examples than the adults. We often tell children to behave like adults, but Jesus tells adults to model themselves after the children!
So what are the qualities and character adults should model? Their humble dependence on others and their acceptance of themselves. A child enjoys much but can explain very little. Children live by faith: trusting others to care for them and see them through. When a child has a hurt or a problem they immediately take it to their Father or Mother. What an example for us to follow in our relationship with our heavenly Father. We are totally dependent on the mercy and grace of God and He wants to embrace and bless us as well.
Personal Worship Option:
Reflect on this song - it’s meaning is meant for children AND adults.
JESUS LOVES ME
Jesus loves me, this I know,
for the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to him belong;
they are weak, but he is strong.
Refrain:
Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me, this I know,
as he loved so long ago,
taking children on his knee,
saying, "Let them come to me."
[Refrain]
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