Welcoming the Kingdom with a Childlike Heart

Scripture: Matthew 19:13-15 (WEBBE)

13 Then little children were brought to him, that he should lay his hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them.
14 But Jesus said, “Allow the little children, and don’t forbid them to come to me; for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to ones like these.”
15 He laid his hands on them, and departed from there.

Reflection:

In this short but powerful passage, we see a beautiful glimpse into the heart of Jesus. As little children are brought to Him, the disciples, perhaps thinking they are protecting His time or dignity, try to prevent them from approaching. But Jesus’ response is striking: He not only welcomes the children but also affirms that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like them.

1. The Value of Childlike Faith:

Jesus’ words, “Allow the little children, and don’t forbid them to come to me,” reveal His deep love and concern for children. He sees value in their innocence, humility, and dependence, qualities that are often overlooked in a world that values power and independence. By welcoming the children, Jesus is teaching us that these childlike qualities are essential for entering the Kingdom of Heaven.

Childlike faith is characterized by trust, simplicity, and openness. Children naturally trust those who care for them, they approach life with a sense of wonder, and they are unafraid to ask for help when they need it. Jesus calls us to embrace these same attitudes in our relationship with God. He invites us to trust Him completely, to approach Him with a heart free from pride and self-sufficiency, and to rely on His grace and guidance in all things.

2. The Kingdom Belongs to the Humble:

When Jesus says, “for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to ones like these,” He is making a profound statement about who is truly great in the eyes of God. The Kingdom of Heaven is not earned through achievements, status, or power; it is received by those who recognize their need for God and come to Him with humble, trusting hearts.

This challenges us to examine our own hearts and attitudes. Are we approaching God with the humility and trust of a child, or are we relying on our own strength and wisdom? Jesus’ words remind us that true greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven is found in humility, dependence on God, and a heart that is open to His love and guidance.

3. Welcoming Others as Jesus Does:

Jesus’ actions also teach us about how we should treat others, especially those who may be vulnerable or overlooked. Just as He welcomed the children, we are called to welcome and care for those who are often marginalized or seen as insignificant. This includes not only children but also anyone who is in need of love, support, and encouragement.

By welcoming others with the same love and openness that Jesus showed, we become instruments of His grace and bring the presence of the Kingdom of Heaven into the world around us. We are called to reflect Jesus’ heart in our relationships, showing kindness, compassion, and a willingness to serve those who are most in need.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us the value of childlike faith and the importance of humility in our relationship with You. Help us to approach You with hearts that are open, trusting, and dependent on Your grace. Teach us to welcome others as You do, with love and compassion, especially those who are vulnerable or in need. May our lives reflect the values of Your Kingdom, and may we always seek to honor You in all that we do. Amen.

Contemplation:

Spend some time in quiet reflection, considering the qualities of a childlike heart. Are there areas in your life where you need to let go of pride or self-reliance and trust more fully in God? How can you cultivate a heart that is more open and humble? Also, think about how you can extend Jesus’ love and welcome to those around you, especially those who may feel overlooked or unimportant. Ask God to help you see others through His eyes and to respond with the love and kindness that He shows us.