"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)
Sunday, March 3, 2024 - Day 63 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 32,33; Mark 10:1-31)
CHILDREN AND JESUS
And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them. (Mark 10:13-16 ESV)
ESV)
For some adults, children are unimportant and should be as unobtrusive as possible. The disciples didn't want Jesus to “waste” His time on children. But Jesus did not agree. “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”
Jesus is talking about all children. No matter how old we get, Jesus is telling us that we need to have the simple, trusting faith of a child. What does Jesus do with “children” who trust Him with so completely? He takes them in His arms and blesses them now and forever.
I am Jesus' little lamb,
Ever glad at heart I am;
For my Shepherd gently guides me,
Knows my need and well provides me,
Loves me ev'ry day the same,
Even calls me by my name.
(I Am Jesus' Little Lamb, Lutheran Service Book #740, stanza 1)
Lord, thank You for calling me by name on the day of my Baptism. What a blessing it is to be one of Your children. Since You love all children of all ages, please use me to help others to know how precious they are to You. Amen.
“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!
Pastor David Paape
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year.
No comments:
Post a Comment