READ: Mark 10:13-16
Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it. – Mark 10:15
The Lord Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem with his disciples. People brought their little children to Him, wanting Him to touch and bless them. The disciples preferred not to be bothered and rebuked the parents or guardians. However, the Lord was greatly displeased with them and reprimanded them: the blessing of the Lord also applies to them as children of the covenant! Let them come to Him too, for He is also their Savior!
God cares for the humble, including little children and others, and designates them for His Kingdom. This is not the first time Jesus has had to remind the disciples to pay attention to the humble (see 9:37).
What is the basis for the disciples’ rejecting the very young? Apparently, they consider them to be unimportant and insignificant. This is a common mistake rooted in pride. They would rather focus on those who are esteemed and can benefit them than on people who go unnoticed in their simplicity.
But Jesus exposes this and points them to the rule of the kingdom of God. Simple faith that expects everything from the Lord and His blessing is far more important to God than human accomplishments or self-importance. The instruction is clear: be humble before the Lord and one another. This pleases the Lord. The Kingdom of God is intended for such as these.
The Lord continues even more strongly, saying, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Without such humility and trust, eternal salvation is not intended for you.
Do you feel dependent or self-conscious in the presence of God?
Singing: Ps. 131:1,2
