In my devotional reading today I was in Mark 10:13-31. Little kids were clamoring around Jesus. I can't blame them. I bet Jesus was a really fun guy to be around. We adults tend to think of Jesus as a serious minded Messiah, with a scowl on His face perpetually. But while Jesus was indeed serious at times, He also had a softer side-one which was a magnet to kids.
These kids were getting on the disciples nerves. I bet they probably said something like, "Hey you little monsters, get out of here! Don't you know Jesus has more important things to do than play with you bunch of snotty nosed kids!"
Jesus however, had a different plan. The scriptures said He was "indignant" at the disciples. That is a fancy term for saying Jesus was ticked off at them. He then gathered the children around and gave a very important faith lesson.
In v.15 Jesus said, "If anyone does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child they will never enter into it." Wow. That is deep. Jesus is talking about child-like faith. I believe that is why Jesus liked being around kids so much. Because they exhibited the kind of simple trust that is often lacking in adults. I am amazed at my own kids who are seven and three. Sometimes I think they are more spiritual than I am.
Let me give you an assignment if you are feeling a little too grown up. Go to a playground and watch some kids. If you're a grandparent, take your grandchildren out for an afternoon. If you have small kids at home still, just sit and observe them. Watch how they just believe and dream. How they simply trust and don't need proof. How they live each moment to the fullest. And ask God to rekindle that childlike faith in you.
Expecting Great Things,
Bryan
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