Matthew 18: 1-5
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"
He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me."
Jesus describes the child as being in a "lowly position." Jesus, I think, was pointing out the simplicity of childhood and the simplicity of hearing and believing when we are presented with a truth. And although the children were considered "lowly" by rank of age or status, they also had the most potential, and the most room for growth. And at a young age they do not have the expectations adults have, for recognition or reward. Sometimes simple is better, and leaves more space for improvement. I haven't really thought about this before, or how it might apply to me.
Holy Lord, show me ways to be more childlike, when it is appropriate. Help me to recognize what you so valued in childhood. Amen
Becky, transforming
Thursday, October 5th, 2023
Matthew 18:1-5
At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me.
Jesus is telling the disciples that they will never enter his kingdom unless they exercise the trusting faith of a child. Children believe whatever they are told. Jesus asks all believers to believe whatever he tells…
Matthew 18: 1-5
”Greatness,” such as it is in heaven will be a matter of a life lived in faith and not the social or financial status we achieve. Child-like faith infers an innocence and purity unmarred by the temptations and foibles of the world. That Jesus used this illustration twice within three chapters in Matthew suggests it is a teaching worthy of close attention. We may, as adults, be sorely lacking in innocence and purity, but we can still have faith as a child does if we lay aside our sin of pride.
Prayer - Loving God, rid me of all impediments to worship and praise You with the full-throated exuberance of a child who has discovered Your love.…
Matthew 18:1-5
Jesus was trying to explain to the disciples that status and position will mean nothing in the Kingdom of Heaven. They were grown men and had seen and done wondrous things with Jesus. He was telling them that those worldly things we prize on earth would no longer be important. They were to approach the Kingdom of Heaven as an innocent, trusting child. You will not need status or influence in Heaven.
Prayer: Gracious God, May I always remember the child-like Faith of my youth. Amen