Come As Little Children
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Recently I have been blessed to have friends join me for a daily walk. Well, the truth be known, I join them as they are the ones always urging me on. It is a great privilege to belong to a community of believers who truly do life together. We encourage and prod one another on, not only in the physical, but also in our spiritual walk.
Our walks are covered up with chatter, laughter, prayer and yes sometimes a few tears. These are truly power walks in the truest sense of the word. Before we know it the three or four miles are conquered and we find ourselves on a higher path of faith. Courage has filled us up and we are ready to conquer another day.
Of course when three grandmas are walking and talking, grandchildren are always a fun part of our conversations. One told the story of her grandson who loves trains. As their car crossed the railroad tracks, he began to tell his dad he wanted to see the train. His dad explained that the train wasn’t there, but little one of great faith, insisted that he wanted to see the train. Dad turns his son’s attention to one who could possibly answer his great request. “You can pray and ask God to please let you see a train.” He immediately began to pray, and surprisingly a train approached. He was overjoyed and filled with delight and wonder! (I wish I could have seen Daddy’s face.)
Some time later seeing the tracks again he said, “I want to see the train.” He quickly sat down on the curb, folded his little believing hands and began praying to see the train. The train didn’t appear this time, and Dad had opportunity to explain we don’t always get the answer that we want, but we always have the privilege to ask.
In the Bible, Jesus used children to teach us the kind of faith required in the Kingdom of God. He tells us we must change from our adultness and become as little children. As adults we use our minds, our intellect instead of faith. Children live in wonder and expectation, taking mom and dad and God at His word.
“Oh, Lord, may we become as little children, planting ourselves on the curb of your promises, praying prayers of faith and expectantly waiting for You to answer. Give us back the wonder and awe of a little child.”
What promise of God are you planting yourself on and not letting go, believing God will answer according to His will?