OCTOBER 31

Mark 10:13-16

                   LITTLE CHILDREN BROUGHT TO JESUS

We read today that little children were brought to Jesus, probably by their parents for Jesus to bless them. This was almost certainly from parents who believe in Jesus and thus their desire to have Jesus bless and pray for their kids. However, the disciples didn’t like it. Instead of welcoming these parents, the disciples rebuked them. That made Jesus very angry. The phrase “much displeased” in verse 14 meant Jesus was very displeased and in fact, indignant or furious.

To his disciples, Jesus said, “Suffer (allow) the little children to come unto Me and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.” And the Lord Jesus lovingly took them up in His arms, put His hands upon them, and blessed them. What does “for of such is the kingdom of God” mean?

The Kingdom of God refers to Heaven. Here, Jesus is saying that to enter Heaven, one must be kind these children. These are very little kids who are trusting and completely dependent on those who are to care for them. Look at a baby sleeping in the arms of his mother. Or a young child resting in the baby pram you may see in church or in a supermarket. When they rest, these children are fully trusting that their mother or that baby pram will protect and take care of them. They do not doubt, they do not try to protect themselves. This is the image of a genuine Christian – never doubting and fully trusting in Jesus. For anyone to be a believer, we must realize we are unable to do anything to buy our salvation. Complete faith must in Christ, for only He can save, and only He is the way to Heaven.

Dear child, are you sure you are saved?

Thought: May I be like these little ones, to fully trust in Jesus.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray that I’d be absolutely sure I’m saved. I know You love me and I pray that I’ll learn to love and obey You more and more. In the wonderful name of Jesus - Amen.