In the Gospel of Mark, we find a touching story
that highlights the remarkable faith of children and the importance of
approaching God with childlike trust—the story of Jesus blessing the little
children. This beautiful account serves as a powerful reminder of the value
that Jesus places on childlike faith and innocence.
The story is found in Mark 10:13-16, where
parents bring their children to Jesus so that he might bless them. However, the
disciples rebuke the parents and try to prevent the children from coming to
Jesus, perhaps thinking that Jesus had more important matters to attend to.
Also Read: Our Daily Devotion
But when Jesus sees what is happening, he
becomes indignant and rebukes his disciples. He says to them, "Let the
little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God
belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the
kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it" (Mark 10:14-15).
With these words, Jesus emphasizes the
importance of childlike faith in entering the kingdom of God. Children possess
a simple trust and openness to God that adults often lack, and Jesus commends
this childlike faith as essential for receiving the blessings of God's kingdom.
Jesus then takes the children in his arms and
blesses them, demonstrating his love and care for even the smallest members of
society. He shows that every individual, regardless of age or status, is valued
and cherished in the eyes of God.
This story highlights the profound truth that
faith is not about intellect or knowledge but about trust and surrender.
Children have an innate ability to trust without reservation, and Jesus calls
his followers to emulate this childlike trust in their relationship with God.
In addition to the story of Jesus blessing the
little children, the Bible is filled with examples of childlike faith and
trust. One such example is found in the story of Samuel, who, as a young boy,
hears the voice of God calling to him in the night.
In 1 Samuel 3:1-10, we read about how Samuel
serves in the house of the Lord under the guidance of the priest Eli. One
night, as Samuel is lying down to sleep, he hears a voice calling his name.
Thinking it is Eli, Samuel runs to him and asks what he wants. But Eli tells
Samuel that he did not call him and instructs him to go back to bed.
This happens two more times, and each time Samuel hears the voice calling him. Finally, Eli realizes that it is the Lord who is calling Samuel and tells him to respond, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:9).
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When Samuel responds in obedience, God speaks to
him and reveals his plans for the nation of Israel. Despite his young age and
lack of experience, Samuel demonstrates a remarkable faith and willingness to
listen to God's voice—a faith that would shape his life and ministry for years
to come.
Through these stories, we see the importance of cultivating a childlike trust and faith in our relationship with God. Like the little children who came to Jesus, may we approach God with humility, openness, and trust, knowing that he delights in blessing those who come to him with childlike hearts.
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