“…the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, is the GREATEST in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child and placed him among them. And said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like LITTLE CHILDREN, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt. 18:1-3) This was probably a great disappointment to the disciples. They knew that in that day, children were regarded more as property than individuals. Jesus SETS THE BAR for entrance into the kingdom quite high: we must change and become like LITTLE CHILDREN (young innocent children).
HERE ARE SOME REASONS WHY:
- CHILDREN ARE NOT THREATENING: we aren’t afraid of meeting a five-year-old in a dark alley.
- CHILDREN ARE NOT GOOD AT DECEIVING: innocent children are pretty miserable failures at fooling their parents.
- CHILDREN ARE HELD UP AS AN IDEAL OF HUMILITY: and unconcern for social status.
We know that one Man was actually the greatest in the kingdom: Jesus Christ. This means that Jesus Himself was humble like a little child. He wasn’t concerned about his own status. He didn’t have to be the center of attention. He could not deceive, and He didn’t have an intimidating presence.
To Be Like Jesus, To Be Like Jesus
All I Ask To Be Like Him;
All Through Life’s Journey
From Earth To Glory
All I Ask To Be Like Him;
WE NEED TO PRAY THAT WE CAN BE LIKE JESUS…
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham