This month, I want to focus on the statement that Jesus made to his disciples when they rebuked the people and the children that were brought to Jesus to be touched and prayed over.

Matthew 19:14 (ESV)

but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”

When we spend time with God in studying His Word, praying, singing praises, etc., we become more like Christ and bear the fruits of His Spirit. When the disciples rebuked the children, Jesus reminded them that the kingdom of heaven belongs to the little ones.

I’ve met a lot of people in my life who didn’t know what to do with little children… how to communicate, play, or interact with them. They didn’t even try. Some are even professed Christians who have no ability to connect with kids. I understand that not all have the gift to work with children, but like the disciples, they really didn’t want anything to do with them. 

To be fair, there’s no explanation as to why the disciples rebuked the children. Jesus had been teaching and the disciples may have wanted to learn more from their Rabbi. Maybe they needed to move on to another place and it was getting late. After all, they had to walk everywhere they went.

However, Jesus took the time to show how important children are to Him. He even went on to say in the book of Mark that children are the key to showing us how to enter God’s Kingdom.

Mark 10:15 (ESV)

Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it. 

I honestly believe that someone who has no experience with kids can still learn to love children and interact with them. They need to allow themselves to be transformed by God through spending time with Him. Jesus never rejected a child and neither should we if we are Christ-like.

To everyone of you, I am thankful that you have not rejected the kids, but have embraced them by teaching them God’s Word each Sunday and praying for them. You are precious in God’s eyes because you let the children come to you.

Love you all. Have a blessed weekend with the kids!!

Teacher Francisco