For to such belongs the kingdom of God ...

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Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”

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There is something about babies that draw many close to God. Perhaps it is the wonder of birth itself that causes parents to bring their newborns to a religious service of dedication? It is as if these adult people of faith understand how difficult life can be and want their child to have all the help that God can give them. My children were but a few weeks old when a pastor held them and blessed them with a prayer of dedication. It was a sweet and blessed moment.

Jesus transforms this image of infants being brought to him into a conversation about what it takes to enter the kingdom of God. When I think about this I am brought to the realization that one does not need to understand much to enter. The image of salvation is the image of a child trusting their parents because they know that their parents love them deeply. In like manner we are called to this simple trust of a heavenly parent who unconditionally loves us.

Help me to trust you like an innocent child today Lord.

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