Jul 25, 2010

Let the little children come to me...

“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’ And He laid His hands on them and departed from there.” ~Matt. 19:14-15

Nick,

I’ve written before about being mentors to younger kids through teaching and instructing, but this time I want to touch on another aspect. Throughout His ministry, Jesus repeatedly exhibits tender-heartedness. One of the clearest examples is at Lazarus’s tomb. John 11:35: “Jesus wept.” Oh! the power in that simple verse! How comforting it is to know that the Creator of the Universe loves the dust of the earth so much that He weeps at their death! We, too, are to be tenderhearted. This tenderness should extend not only to little children, but also to adults. However, I think children need a special tenderness; a tenderness that expresses itself in gentleness, patience, and love. Look at Jesus’ words above: “for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Children are God’s special gift to us. He gives us charge of a helpless infant to show us how to teach, love, and learn. Children’s relationship to their parents mirrors the relationship we have with God. In His eyes, we are helpless infants who totally rely on His grace and mercy. Children are indeed a great gift. But tenderness is also to be shown to adults. At work, at home, on vacation, wherever you might be, you are to always to be tenderhearted. Does this mean we aren’t supposed to discipline or be firm? On the contrary, but it should always be done with a loving spirit, seeking to better, rather than avenge. Now this may seem irrelevant at this moment in our lives, but it isn’t, in fact. We are confronted with many opportunities to show loving correction to either younger (or older) siblings or young kids at church. We have plenty of opportunities to practice for when we have children (and spouses). Always remember, if it wasn’t for the Lord’s tenderheartedness, we wouldn’t be here at all. May the Lord bless you and keep you this week!

Your brother in Christ,

Corey

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