Children wanted to be with Jesus. Unfortunately for them, Jesus’ disciples didn’t want them around. They were concerned the children would bother Jesus. They didn’t see the children as important.

Instead Jesus welcomed the children with open arms, even rebuking His disciples: “When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’ And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” (Mark 10:13-16 NIV).

A few weeks ago, I told the story of a child in the ocean, trying to make huge waves. That child just kept on trying to make big ripples in the water because it was important to him. If Jesus were still on Earth, He would have made waves and ripples with this child. I can imagine Him taking the child’s hand and walking with him in the ocean. I can almost hear them laughing together, and I can envision the huge smile on the child’s face because he realized he was loved.

I have a very strange memory. I was just a babe in arms, long before I could speak; yet I clearly remember being in my mother’s arms. I could feel her love and it was important to me. I remember thinking, “Thank you Jesus for giving me a wonderful mom who loves me.” I was so happy. I didn’t want to leave from my mother’s arms. I often think about this time with my mom. I knew Jesus was with me, and I knew I was blessed that my mom loved me and loved Jesus as well. But when I think about this incident today, I am struck with the fact that I could even have this memory, when I was too young to even be able to talk. I believe Jesus was reaching out to me already at that age, filling my mind and soul with His love.

May we love children, especially our own. They will feel your love and God’s love. As you continue to love them, remember that Jesus accepts them as they are; and because you show them the love of Jesus, these children will be much more likely to follow Jesus with all of their hearts. They will have experienced the love of Jesus.

Jesus will never say: “Get out. You don’t belong here.” Jesus will always love the children, and the ones who follow Him will always follow the love of Jesus. He is our everything.

Share Jesus’ love to anyone, but especially to children that they, too, will be attracted to Jesus.

Rob Chaffart