Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and don’t forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 19:13-15
Men, little children are brought to Jesus, but the disciples rebuke them. Jesus answered them “Let the little children come to Me, don’t forbid them, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven”. The Jews understood that we are all born in to sin.
These parents brought their children to Jesus with this knowledge clear in their minds, hoping Jesus would bless them, recognizing that Jesus was a person of significant notoriety. Having important people bless your child was a common practice in these times, and Jesus probably got a lot of these types of interactions with people. It’s unclear what Jesus’ day has held but the 12 seem to think Jesus shouldn’t be bothered. Regardless, Jesus welcomes them and lays His hand on each of the children. “For of such is the Kingdom of Heaven”.
The Kingdom, through Jesus is wide open to any who come with humility. These little children needed Jesus and He welcomed them. A child sees life simply. They are in need, or they are satisfied. They are welcome or they are not. Especially small children. It’s not complicated. Kingdom is available to such. We’re in need, we are welcome through Jesus.
Move forward men, embracing Jesus in simple terms as a child. Be welcomed into His presence that He might place a blessing on you. Be sure not to rebuke any who come unto Him. Little children play where they are and don’t know they’re dirty. Most of us don’t know how dirty we are inside as we engage life where we are. Jesus still welcomes us all, as dirty as we are.
Vance Durrance
