Tuesday, August 2, 2005
Matthew 18:2-3 "He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: 'I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."
BE LIKE A CHILD TODAY
Jesus says that we must become like little children. But in what way must we be like little children? Some have said innocence. All children are innocent, and so we must become innocent again to enter heaven. However, anyone that has observed little children at play could tell you that innocence is not typically the defining characteristic of a child.
Little children fight over things, argue, boss each other around, and disobey their parents. Sure they're cute in pictures and appear very innocent at times, but let's be serious, children are still sinners. So what trait did Jesus have in mind when He said that the disciples, as us, must we be like children? The answer may very well be dependence.
All little children depend on their parents for food, for clothing, for a home. As God's children, we are dependant on God, not only for things like food and clothing, but also for love, comfort, and
strength when times are hard. Most of all, the children of God are dependant on God, for forgiveness.
Through Jesus we are given forgiveness. His is the bread of life that the Father has provided for us. Through faith we are clothed by His righteousness. Because of Him our home is heaven. All of this is has been made possible because of our Father's love that has come to us through His Son. What a wonderful thing it is to be dependent on a Father like ours!
