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He had no concept what he was missing
Reference: Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (Luke 18:17 NIV)
Explore: Our six and seven year olds recently had a ten day holiday with my sister at the beach. They had an amazing time sleeping in a tent, meeting new friends and swimming everyday.
Our 14 month old stayed at home. He had no concept what he was missing, but he did notice the absence of the older boys.
When we got in the car he would glance over to the other boys’ seats to look where they were. And whenever we were home he would always want to be held rather than playing on the floor like he usually does.
We could tell he was missing the bigger boys, but we didn’t realise how much until they returned home. As soon as he saw them his whole face lit up.
He put his arms out to be held by them and I have never seen a bigger smile on his face! He was beaming all day and never left the boys’ side. It was a delight to see.
Application: I think children can express joy better than anyone else. They are unreserved in their expressions and don’t hold back with their excitement.
There are so many reasons why Jesus welcomed children and I think their emotional openness was a great example to the disciples, as well as to us today. When it comes to our relationship with God we can learn a lot from children.
Seeing our 14 month old’s response to the older boys certainly inspired me to be more open, welcoming and transparent with my celebrations. Here’s hoping I can incorporate those same emotions in my relationship with God.
Prayer: Lord, while You know my heart may I be open with my expressions of love and joy to You. Amen.
How do you express yourself to God?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.