Jesus loved children. He took the time for them and gave His affection to them. This is easy to understand when we consider how He viewed them. In Mark 10:14 Jesus said—“…Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God” (NKJV). This “man of sorrows” who, so often found Himself in constant turmoil from those who ridiculed, persecuted and rejected Him, loved children and found in them a spirit that was heavenly.

     On another occasion when asked “who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” Scriptures tell us that Jesus “…called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, ÎAssuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.’” (Matthew 18:1-3). With these words Jesus illustrated clearly the type of spirit that must fill the hearts of those who would serve Him: a spirit of humble acceptance (Matthew 18:4) and a spirit of innocence concerning sin (Matthew 18:6).

     The Apostle Paul put this in perspective when he taught those in Corinth—“Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature” (1 Corinthians 14:20). When Jesus tells us to be converted and be like children He isn’t telling us to be naive like children. Instead He is teaching us to be humble, gentle and innocent like little children.

     To be a disciple of Jesus means more that just doing what Jesus said. It involves acting as He acted. As adult we often view children much differently than the Lord did. We are often impatient and short with them. We may find them to be an interruption or a distraction to our affairs. The gospel of Mark tells us that Jesus—“…took them up in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them” (Mark 10:16). Jesus said—“Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me…” (Mark 9:37). As disciples of Christ let us heed Jesus’ words and His example as we love and accept little children more in our lives, seeking to become more like them ourselves.