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And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: but when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called unto him, and said, suffer little children to come unto me, forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.

 

What an eye-opening set of verses! First, those who follow Jesus are rebuking people who wish their children to be touched by Jesus. The people wish to take part in the kingdom of God and want their children to be able to as well. Maybe the disciples were protecting Jesus? Maybe they wanted to keep Jesus for themselves? Maybe they were jealous of the attention Jesus was getting? But Jesus puts them in their place and gives us instruction as well.

Jesus says we are to receive the kingdom of God as a little child. A little child trusts everyone and everything. They follow instructions. They are faithful and loving. The devil and the world teaches them otherwise. I have heard this passage read when a family is having their children baptized. Maybe we are using it out of context at the time of a child's baptism? Or is it not for all to remind us that the children whose faith is stronger than ours also needs the miracle of baptism. Water is just water till the word is added and the action happens through Christ.

Lord, give us the faith of a child.

Russ Nixon

rwnixon57@yahoo.com