|
These little ones you see in the pic aren’t rattled, stressed or worried. They sit peacefully delighted by the rain splashing on the outside patio. In the other picture, could the two-year-old be praying for her little brother?
Could be. But the disciples didn’t know about the power of these little one’s innocence. They asked Jesus who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
His reply didn’t mention the devoted Christians, the teachers, the holy preachers or the driven to perform. Instead, “He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: ‘I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven’” (Matthew 18:2-4 NIV).
Humble? Change? Gulp. He’s speaking to those of us who think we have the wisdom, the abilities and gifts, can recite Bible verses, get busy in church, and sit in the pews every Sunday.
That’s what we do. But to enter heaven, is that what we should do? Our challenge is to embrace the trust of a child when he believes what you tell him. The child who is in the room when bad news blares on TV and continues playing. The child who only knows the moment and never frets about tomorrow.
No wonder we’re missing the peace deep inside. That’s why Jesus asks us to change. Easy to do? Not really because we’re creatures of worry, beings ruled by stress, and people swayed by the wind of current events.
What we’re missing is that peace, that trusting peace that should rule within. You find it when you ponder on God’s Word while seated in front of the window of faith, watching God’s goodness splash into your heart. Begin with these reflections as you move toward becoming one of the “greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
Dispel all fear: “The LORD is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1 NIV).
Trust in His protection: “I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust” (Psalm 91:2 NIV).
Sing to erase gloom: “I will sing to the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live” (Psalm 104:33 NIV).
Believe in His response: “I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live” (Psalm 116:1-2 NIV).
Live with courage: The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 118 NIV).
Receive His counsel: "I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken" (Psalm 16:7-8 NIV).
When you choose to be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10), the child in you trusts without worry, walks with no fear, believes without doubt, rejoices without hesitation and lives without anxiety.
Let's Pray: Father, I confess my temptation to take control, succumb to restlessness and forget to be still. But I vow to have the trusting, calm heart of a child. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
What is missing in your life?
Bonus article on today’s topic.
Janet P. Eckles
|
