Scripture
Our verse for today comes from Matthew 19:14, ” But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’ “
Background
Several years ago, my four-year-old daughter and I had a special date. My wife had to work, so after I dropped all the other kids off for activities night at camp, my little one and I headed straight to where she wanted to go – the mall. She remembered a similar night we had spent with her mom along with us a few months ago, and so this was the first chance she had had to go back since then.
On the way, she reminded me of the accessories store where she had put on so many necklaces that she looked like Mr. T. She also remembered going in the shoe store and walking around with the adult-sized high heels on like she had worked a fashion runway for years. This time, we began our evening with some escalator rides and then headed over to the playground. Once she tired of that, it was another ride on the escalator and then off to the food court. There happened to be a little carousel in the food court, so she climbed all over that until she managed to mooch a free ride off of another kid’s ride. She couldn’t quite finish off her chicken, but she did manage to save room for a chocolate chip cookie. After that, we made a stop in the kids’ clothing store, visited the shoe store, and spent some more time at the playground.
Application
By now, it was getting close to pick-up time at camp, so we made our way to the van. Heading out of the parking lot, we did manage to swing by McDonald’s, not for any more food, but for a short visit to their playground, too. While my daughter climbed up and slid down, I asked another mom if her son was the one in the red shirt. She immediately said, ” What’s he doing? ” My answer, unfortunately for her, was that he was taking off his clothes. Mortified, she hopped up and re- dressed him, and me and my date decided it was time to go. It had been my night to spend a little time in God’s kingdom, and I certainly felt like a king. Our Lord wants the little children to come to Him. Count yourself blessed, and a blessing, when you help them take a step in His direction.
And never think that they’re too young or too old, or you’re too busy.
Charge
As we seek Him today, thank God for your spouse and the others in your life who play a role in pointing your child to Christ. If this time of childrearing is not your season in life, then thank Him for what He has already done, or what He is yet to do.
Rich Holt / Originally Published on : BCWorldview.org
Also published on : Medium.com.
