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Jesus and the Children

By: Steve Negley

Posted: February 15, 2022

Category: Daily Devotional

Mark 10:13-16

13 People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. 14 But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. 15 Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.

This story is shared in three of the four gospels (Mark 10:13-16, Matthew 19:13-15, and Luke 18:15-17). And it’s worth reading over and over.

In reading it we might have some questions:

  • I wonder how the children felt as they were held by Jesus.
  • I wonder what the children said to Jesus (and what Jesus whispered in their ears)?
  • I wonder what it’s like – even as an adult – to receive the Kingdom of God “like a child”?

Prayer

God, let me sit in Your presence today with innocence, joy, and wonder as I accept Your parental love for me as one of Your children. Thank You for claiming me through my Lord and Savior Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.