To Such Belongs the Kingdom of God: Daily Thoughts from Mark (Mark 10:13-16)

I consider it one of the evidences for the truth of Christianity that our founder acknowledges children and their value as well as their example for how we should live our lives. But the adult disciples of Jesus needed a slap up the side of the head when they failed to value children. Jesus needed to show them the way.

And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them. (Mark 10:13-16, ESV)

How does a child receive the kingdom of God?

with enthusiasm
with utmost trust
with unflagging hope
with a willingness to share
wholeheartedly

Does Jesus mean that if we have any doubts or flag in our enthusiasm ever we cannot enter the kingdom? No, but that is our warning that we have gotten off track in regard to the kingdom and need a course correction. There is nothing more important than the kingdom, nothing that more satisfies our hearts or meets our deepest needs. It is coming and we serve its King, Jesus.

I love that Jesus makes this our standard and that children have this much worth to him. We would not have the heart for children we have if Jesus hadn’t come and showed us the way. Have you blessed a child today? Have you brought your faith into conformity to a child’s faith?

About the Author Randall Johnson

A full-time pastor since 1979, Randall originally graduated from Dallas Theological Seminary (ThM) in 1979 and from Reformed Theological Seminary (DMin) in 1998. He is married with four grown children and a pile of epic grandchildren.

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