A Mother’s Love

But what happened on that day is beyond my understanding.

Matthew 18:1-14

Reference: v.6 “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were drowned in the depths of the sea. (TNIV Bible)

Explore: There are times in my life when I am forced to stop and think, ‘How could anyone be so mean?’

A friend of mine recently came into contact with her parents. She had been in the foster system since she had finished primary school and had no contact with them in that whole time. This was a huge step for her after all the memories of hurt and abuse.

But what happened on that day is beyond my understanding.

Emma was waiting for her parents at their house and when they arrived home they parked in the garage. Her mother came towards Emma and asked if she could help her. (Understandably, Emma had changed a great deal since she was a young child living with them.)

Emma said, “It’s me, Emma.” To which her mother replied, “I don’t know an Emma.”

“It’s your daughter, Emma,” she explained.

“I don’t have a daughter called Emma,” her mother said. Then walked away and closed the garage as Emma stood there in disbelief.

Who does that? Who is that heartless? Who could possibly reject any human being in such a heartless way, let alone their own daughter?

I don’t think I will ever understand the actions of some people.

Application: Jesus was quite matter-of-fact about people who came between him and children. In a number of significant stories about Jesus, He was known to elevate children to a level that was beyond culture’s understanding.

On top of raising up the children, he was also very blunt as to what should happen to adults who did not see children as being as important as He did.

While I am far from a perfect human being, Matthew 18 has been a good reminder to appreciate our children more, and acknowledge how important they are to God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may we love children as you love them. May we work to care and support all children that come into our lives. Amen.

Which child in your life needs some extra love and care?

care, children, love, Matthew, parents