People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said 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.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
“Indignant” is a strong word. It means feeling or showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment. Jesus was indignant at his disciples. They were treating children poorly. They were devaluing parents who cared for their children. Maybe they thought having Jesus bless children was not as flashy and exciting as casting out demons and doing miracles? Maybe they thought it was beneath his power and ability?
A little bit earlier he had told them: “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” (Mark 9:37) So by applying this verse, the disciples were not only rebuking the parents and the children, in doing this they were rejecting Jesus and God. God’s heart is for his children, and children with their simple faith understand God’s heart in an unclouded way. They simply believe and trust him. Their love is more unconditional in its nature in general.
So when I see children as I go through life I am to think of them as highly favored by God. Yes, they can make some noise, fight at times, and seem to take more of my time to instruct and correct. But God is patient with me when I am this way too. And children teach us so much about what matters in life. They typically don’t worry about food or houses or vacations. They can be happy with the least expensive things. They love us just because we are.
Lord, thank you for this additional reminder that children have your heart priority and they should have mine too. Help me to prioritize them!
