Mark 10:13-16 (NLT)
One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.
When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them,“Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.
As a teacher, I stand before a captive audience daily. Occasionally one of the students will ask me an off-the-wall question like, “Mr. Provine, you and Eminem [the rapper] look close. You and him related?” A chuckle follows.
While some people may be offended, I use it as an opportunity at relationship building, to laugh and have a good time. “Yes I am. We’re actually cousins. Matter of fact, my auntie started calling me Snicker about the same time she started calling him M&M.”
“Really?” they respond.
“No, but I got you.”
After the laughter dies down, I tell them how gullible kids can be. How they believe anything. This is usually followed by another round of laughter as the joke finally sinks in.
As I read Scripture such as the one this morning, I realize my need to be more like my kids when it comes to listening to my greatest teacher, Jesus. Jesus says, “Mark this: Unless you accept GOD’s kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you’ll never get in.” (verse 15, The Message). That’s fairly cut and dry. We say something; kids believe it. Jesus says something; we believe it. Or we should.
Allow me to give you a test (what else are teachers good for?). Answer honestly and see how you do. You’re on the honor system.
Answer the following questions with a simple “yes” or “no.”
1. Do you believe Jesus is the Son of GOD?
2. Do you believe Jesus died for your sins and rose again conquering death?
3. Do you believe that Jesus is in heaven preparing an eternal home for you?
4. Do you believe Jesus works miracles?
5. Do you believe Jesus is coming back for you?
6. Do you believe you can take comfort in Jesus through troubles?
7. Do you believe Jesus really loves you?
8. Do you believe, as John (the pastor not the Baptist) preached on, that the power of Jesus can radically change and heal things?
While these statements have sent many a pilgrim on soul-searching journeys, a child would answer yes to all. Its my hope that we can do the same. Whatever Jesus says, we not only accept and believe it, but live it out in our lives.
Application: If you answered “yes“ or “no” to any of the above questions, pray (which is a child-like step in itself) and ask GOD to increase your faith. Like a child, cry out and raise your hands and allow Jesus to pick you up, wrap his arms around you, and love on you a little while.
