Little Ones

Here is an audio link for today’s post.

They were bringing to him little children, that he should touch them, but the disciples rebuked those who were bringing them. But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation and said to them,

“Allow the little children to come to me! Don’t forbid them, for God’s Kingdom belongs to such as these. Most certainly I tell you, whoever will not receive God’s Kingdom like a little child, he will in no way enter into it.”

He took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.

Mark 10:13-16

What do you say when your young child tells you they want to know Jesus? Do they really understand? Should we just give in and let them make a profession of faith and be baptized? Just how bad could a little child be?

Well, let’s answer that last question, first.

All people are born with a sin nature. Adam’s sin was the original sin. After he sinned, all of mankind inherited a heart that is bent towards sin. Sin is rebellion against God and His moral law. (Romans 5:12).

So, even newborns come with a fallen nature. Sin is born in us.

***^{Photo courtesy of Christelle Carley}***

Keep reading though because there is good news ahead.

Scripture tells us that Jesus loves little ones. That’s what the key passage is all about.

The people who brought them to Jesus must have loved these little ones. Children were not really to be noticed in that culture and at that time. That’s why the disciples wanted to send them away. They did not want Jesus to be interrupted by mere children.

They may have been simply curious. But I believe it was more than that. These families knew about Jesus, by reputation. They wanted Him to bless their children. They knew something extraordinary was happening because Jesus was among them and He was doing wonderful things.

But there is something more about this true story. The fact that it is part of Scripture tells us that the Holy Spirit inspired this tender moment to teach an important truth.

This passage is an image of grace offered not only to little ones, but it is offered to anyone who is weak and powerless. It is for people who are diminished. His grace is for the lowly in heart. And anyone can bow their heart to the Savior in such humility

Young children tend to have an attraction to the Savior. They believe in Him with a simplicity not hampered by doubt. They may not fully understand the tug of the Holy Spirit upon their tender young souls, but it is very real, nonetheless.

Young children, especially, have not lived long enough to be hardened sinners. But little ones still tell lies, disobey parents, express greed and jealousy and other such sinful behaviors. They need the Savior. They need grace.

“He took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.“

Jesus loved those little children, didn’t He? He loved the people who brought them to Jesus. He loved His disciples who failed to grasp the moment. Jesus isn’t willing for anyone to perish. (John 3:17)

People who know they need a Redeemer, come to Him simply, as a little child. They are unencumbered by guilt, pride, or unbelief. They receive Him in spite of their weaknesses.

So, to answer the question posed at the beginning of this devotion; “What do you say when your child tells you they want to know Jesus?”

But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 19:14

Go to a trustworthy pastor who will know how to listen to your child. They will not put words in your child’s mouth. Rather, a godly pastor truly knows how to listen first. Then they will ask your child questions to verify that they really do understand.

Here are some passages that will help little ones understand the steps to salvation.