children Archives - Daily Thoughts about God

“But Jesus called the children to him and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’” Luke 18:16-17

I know it’s not actually in the Bible, but I can picture the little drummer boy on the night Christ was born. There he was, peering around legs, sheep, and long robes. Maybe he heard the angels sing to the shepherds? Perhaps he was sleeping at the inn and awoke to the ruckus outside. Curious, he went to see what the fuss is all about. People were bringing gifts. Someone said this was the new king. The little drummer boy steps forward and offered his song, and the babe in the manger smiled at him. Barumpa, pum, pum.

Many people say Christmas is for children. We grown-ups are too harried, too conscious of the money, too cynical to get sucked into the whole thing. Christmas bonuses go to paying down bills, or buying gifts for the kids. It doesn’t matter. It’s all become too commercial anyway. Bah-humbug.

Yet Jesus invites us closer to the manger. “Don’t be anxious about material things,” He says. God loves and cares for us. Seek the kingdom first (Matthew 6:25-33). Draw near like a child with curiosity, openness, and faith. Embrace the season once again in its original joy.

Dearest Lord, invite us into your presence with the innocence of a child. Help us to adjust our faith-eyes to see you shining through the glitter and presents and parties. Then, in humility, let us bow down before your manager and once again declare you king over our lives. Amen.

By Julie Cosgrove
Used by permission

My children often show me the very basics of our humanness.

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14 (NIV)

My children often show me the very basics of our humanness. The not-yet-redeemed parts: how we are innately selfish, greedy and impatient. They also show me the heavenly parts: how to play and dream. How to move and make up stories. How to love and come in for a cuddle. Children are not afraid of intimacy and adventure. Their hearts are wide open, ready to love, happy to explore. Children are eager to learn; not yet set in their ways.

While most people love babies, not all people tolerate children. And yet, Jesus said: Let the children come. Children interrupt our ideas of perfection. How often I think of heaven as a perfect place where every duck is in a row. But Jesus said, Let the children come. In a way, I have come to think that He says, Come, let’s invite in the chaos. Let’s fling open the skies and let the noise come in. Let’s learn together and play, like the family I meant for us to be. It’ll be fun.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to come to You, like a child. Help me to learn from You, like a child. Help me to be more open to the chaos and noisiness of Life. Help me to see You in these moments. Amen.

By Idelette McVicker
Used by Permission

Christmas Is For Children

FURTHER READING

When Children Come

My children often show me the very basics of our humanness.

Further Reading

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Christmas Is For Children

FURTHER READING

When Children Come

My children often show me the very basics of our humanness.

Further Reading