Become Like This Child

Within the Gospels and in the message of the Bible, the role of children in God’s kingdom is not underestimated.  One such example of this is seen in a response given by Jesus in the Gospel According to Matthew:

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.
(Matthew 18:1-5)

Context

The context Jesus gives this action, this striving, is very straightforward.  Taking away the attributes, which we will briefly cover, Jesus states that those who welcome children such as the one in the passage will be greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Truly by following Jesus we are able to accept those who are like children, or who are children.  We may find God’s sanctifying grace by opening our hearts to others.  As Christians we are to welcome those in His image and spirit, and we can see those in this manner: if they are like children.

Becoming Like Children

We are to become like children.  A quote from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are to become like children, blessed in their humble ways.

What does Jesus refer to when he states that we must “become humble like this child?”  Examine how young children demonstrate this humbleness in their actions.  It will give you a great deal of insight into how they interact with the world.

Children do not desire authority at a very young age.  They demonstrate dependence to their parents and are open to others.  Children are also open to learning about a great deal of topics in a genuine sense of interest.

Truly we may find many essences to emulate in children, who are truly a gift of God (Psalm 127:3).  In my opinion there are unlimited ways in which we can further our life by looking at children.

Becoming humble like children is one of many ways to build in our faith.  Try to welcome others in God as children.  Try to be receptive and open to His word and the blessed words of others.  Seek dependence in God’s word.  Be content in the blessings of God that He has bestowed, like children do.

In all these things and more we may find ourselves becoming more like children.  Just as Jesus has said to do we will become more like children, and thus more like Him.  In these pursuits may we be eternally blessed.

God Bless