The hands of a child

Matthew 18:1-5NKJV — At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 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. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.”

To fully grasp the point of these words one needs to understand children, little children specifically.

Watching a young child speaks volumes.

A child’s hands is how they explore their world and how they express themselves.

Those hands can say: cherished.

They will clutch tightly to a favorite toy with one hand while busy about life with the other.

Those hands can say: ignorant.

Because of their very limited understanding, they often grasp things which are dangerous to them, not realizing what hurt truly is.

Those hands can say: emotion.

A child might softly stroke another, showing their love, or strike out, showing their frustration.

Those hands can say: learning.

When they’ve industriously unrolled a new round to t.p. or filled the CD slot with coins.

Those hands can say: joy.

While splashing and scooping and pouring bath water from one receptacle to another, everything about them tells of their enjoyment.

Those hands can say: secure.

By willingly throwing aside whatever to reach both up to their father.

Before their pink lips can form the words, “hold me!” their hands speak.

It’s not a half-hearted request, but an earnest plea.

Those fingers and arms are at their fullest extent, the longing of the heart is so evident in those wee hands.

For there is such innocence and trust in a little child who is loved and cherished.

Their small countenance is completely altered when the plea is heard and they snuggle safely into the neck and shoulder of their adored father.

That is how we should love our Heavenly Father.

The faith, trust, and security of a little child in their earthly father is what our hearts need to learn to find in God.

Jesus showed us what that looked like.

He spoke of it clearly and then lived it out daily.

We have so much to learn from a little child.

Matthew 18:10 NKJV — “Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.”

Let us, each one, find inspiration in the faith of a little child.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your showing us what love and trust in God looks like. Thank You that we have Your Word to learn from and Your example to follow. Lord, thank You that no matter what kind of earthly father we have, You show us what we have in our Heavenly Father. Lord, please continue to help me to have child-like faith. To throw aside everythingy, that I might cling to You alone. Lord, especially when I’m struggling, remind me of the security I have in Your salvation and the love of my Heavenly Father. Thank You so much for all You have done on my behalf. I love You, Jesus. Amen.