Scripture:
People were bringing their children to Jesus so He could touch and bless them, but the disciples tried to stop them. When Jesus saw this, He was upset and said, “Let the children come to Me. Do not stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to those who are like them. Anyone who does not receive God’s kingdom like a child will never enter it.” Then Jesus took the children in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them. Mark 10:13-16
Devotion:
People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
There’s something sacred about the simplicity and trust of a child. They don’t come with pride or status. They don’t bring a list of accomplishments. They come open; hungry for love, eager to be held, believing without hesitation. Jesus didn’t just welcome the children. He was indignant when others tried to push them aside. That says a lot about His heart.
Sometimes life teaches us to be guarded. We become skeptical, hardened, too “grown-up” to simply run to Jesus with open arms. But Jesus reminds us here: this is how we enter the Kingdom. Not by strength or smarts, but by surrender.
In my own life, there have been moments when I felt I wasn’t “spiritual enough” or “put together enough” to come to Him. This passage reminds me: Jesus doesn’t ask for perfection. He asks for a presence. A willing heart. A childlike trust.
Maybe you feel unworthy today. Maybe someone made you feel like you had to earn your way to God. But hear this clearly: Jesus says, “Let them come.” He is not holding you at arm’s length. He’s inviting you into His arms
Prayer:
Lord, give me a heart like a child; open, trusting, and eager to be close to You. Help me to lay down my pride, my doubts, and all the grown-up fears I’ve picked up along the way. Let me come to You freely and fully. Thank You for always making room for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.