…as little children

Matthew 18:1 NKJV — At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”

It’s easy to stand on the outside of this and judge the disciples.

To wonder what was going on in their hearts to ask this question.

But no matter the questions which run through one’s mind when reading this account, there is a wonderful gift of truth in Jesus’answer.

Matthew 18:2-3 NKJV — Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.”

What does it mean to become as a little child?

Watching our granddaughter with her Daddy brings a good example.

She looks forward to time spent together.

She runs to meet him when he comes home from work.

When something is scary she throws up her arms, eyes upon his face, waiting for his arms to enfold her.

When she’s hurting she buries her head under his chin.

When he holds her hand, she follows.

That is the relationship.

One of complete trust, complete dependence upon God.

Of course, our granddaughter has moments of self, when she needs to be removed from error.

She has times of misunderstanding and frustration.

But these never bar her from trusting in her Daddy.

It never dampens her joy at being with him.

She doesn’t hold a grudge.

Yes, I want to have that relationship with Jesus.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for loving us so completely. Lord, help my heart to learn to be as a little child, to love my Heavenly Father with trust and joy. Lord Jesus, thank You for this truth. Expound it to our hearts and minds this morning. Help us to learn to love You as little children. Thank You. Amen.