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Like Children

Written by ronda on . Posted in Phoebe Connections.

Matthew 18:1-5

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Then He called a child to Him and had him stand among them. “I assure you,” He said, “unless you are converted and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child – this one is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one child like this in My name welcomes Me.

The disciples were trying to learn how to advance in God’s kingdom, and Jesus used the opportunity to teach them a lesson in humility. Unless we come to Jesus as a trusting child, willing to learn, and submissive, we cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. To come to Him as a child means we surrender to Him as Lord.

Many people today want salvation from Jesus, but they don’t want to make Him Lord of their lives. They choose Jesus and His benefits, but they do not allow Him to lead them. Unless we surrender to Him as Lord, we will never experience His salvation or the kingdom of heaven. Those who fully humble themselves in surrender to His Lordship are the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Jesus cares deeply about the submissiveness of children. They are trusting and vulnerable creatures, and He takes the responsibility of nurturing them, caring for them, and training them seriously. Jesus is pleased with those who welcome children to care for them and train them. While many may leave that responsibility to someone else because of the work, God honors those who take time for His children.

As mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and sometimes convenient babysitters, our time with children is an investment in their future. God will honor our work to be the hands and feet of Jesus to them. If you work with children in your church, you are welcoming Jesus – especially if no one else wants to do that job. Someone had to teach us, and God provided and equipped the people who displayed Jesus to us while we were young. He will use us to teach the teachers of tomorrow, and He takes the position very seriously. We should, as well.

Have a blessed day!

PHOEBE Connections, Inc. is a 501(c)3 dedicated to enhancing the lives of widows by building relationships and helping them find new identity in Jesus Christ through serving others. We promote an atmosphere of fellowship, where the widow can connect with other widows to develop friendships and supportive relationships.