Jesus loved children. He told his disciples in Matthew 19:14, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” He also instructed them, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14). So obviously kiddos are important. That had me confused for a while; I didn’t get what Jesus meant. But the more I watch kids, the more I see a glimpse of what these verses mean. So here are a few thoughts on what we can learn from the kiddos in our lives.
- Children are present in the moment. Kids don’t have phones. Have you ever been to a restaurant where there’s a table full of kids talking with each other and adults on their phones? God is pleased when we live fully in the moment, enjoying what he brings today and not fretting about tomorrow (Matthew 6:33-34). Sometimes I get so focused on the people posting things on my screen that I forget to interact with those around me, or I miss quiet moments of simply sitting still and breathing because I have to check my friend’s latest status update. Does this ever happen to you? Today, let’s trust God with what happened yesterday, give what might happen tomorrow to him, and look for what he brings along today.
- Children don’t compare. Kids are completely comfortable and happy in who they are. How come as soon as the teenage years hit people start labeling themselves with all these negative things when they never did before? I remember one time my bestie’s little sister had someone tell her she was pretty. The peppy girl replied, “Thanks! I know!” While that was pretty hilarious, when was the last time we accepted a compliment without trying to qualify it (“No I’m not pretty, haha”) and were content with who we are? God made us. In his image. Knowing everything about us (see Genesis 1:27, Psalm 139:13-15). God wanted you just the way he made you and he wanted me just the way he made me. How would our days change if we actually believed that in our souls?
- Children are completely content with their parent. Sometimes I’ll be holding a baby and they’ll start crying for their mama, and the only thing that comforts that baby is being held by his mom. So first kids admit they need a parent, second they run to that parent, and third they rest content in their parent’s arms. God adopted us and chooses to be called our “Father” (Romans 8:15). He is our “refuge, a strong tower against the foe” (Psalm 61:3). Let’s admit we need him, run to him, and rest in his arms today. What a privilege that we can do that! Let’s take advantage of that privilege today.
I’m so glad God chooses to be known as our Father. He could have chosen any name, and the Most Holy King of all the Universe chooses to be known as our Dad. That’s pretty nifty! 🙂
