Lenten Devotional - Wednesday, Mar. 17
Day 25 - Wednesday
March 17
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. Matthew 18:1-5
There is no shortage of paintings showing Jesus welcoming little children into his presence. While these images evoke pleasant feelings for us, it is important for us to realize why it was noteworthy. In the culture of the time, children were not considered important. They were powerless, had nothing to offer, and were not worthy of honor. A great person or leader would not be expected to acknowledge a child, and as Jesus' own disciples demonstrated, the presence of children was considered an unwelcome disruption. Jesus, however, stops what he is doing, notices the children, and offers them his loving attention. Furthermore, he tells his disciples that they should become like children if they are going to enter the kingdom of heaven.
What does it mean for us to become like children? It means...
Recognizing our powerlessness, that in God's sight we are like helpless little children.
Trusting and depending completely on God, as a child does with a parent.
Believing God loves us and welcomes us as his children, as Jesus loved the little ones.
Seeing other "unimportant" people as deeply loved and welcomed by God, as well.
To Do
Look for someone today who might be considered unimportant. Do something to bless and welcome them, remembering how much God loves them. As you do so, remember how much God loves you, also.