Jesus stated in a prior verse, “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.“ (10:15 (NIV)). He wanted to be clear to the disciples that the message of love which Jesus shared was not something that required great training or education… only the faith like that of a child. He reinforced that by taking those children into His arms and by blessing them. That is what He wants of us, too. Simple faith… trust in Him… ready for His blessings. For us, we are to take those blessings and we are to use them to share the Good News with others. Many more need to be brought into His arms and all need His great blessing!
Take a moment to copy this link to give this verse to family, friends, and neighbors. Ask if they recall when young children sat in their laps. Ask how their attention focused on those children and in protecting and caring for them. For many of us, we get to hold those children or grandchildren at Christmas time… and it is some precious moments to spend with those special little ones. Let others know the deep love that Jesus has for ALL His children…(of all ages). Remind them that the Christmas story isn’t for just one day… it is for everyday so share it frequently. Then Take Time For God’s Word© daily and as you see young children with parents or at 10:16 am or pm as you remember this verse and His blessings on the children. For many of us, Christmas came and went too quickly. Presents are opened. Dinners are done. Family is returning to their homes. It isn’t just a one-day event. That message carries on all year long… love… joy… peace… giving… sharing… child-like faith. That’s the message in this verse…blessings are given… keep passing them on to all that you meet. Be that blessing.
Our prayers continue for all the seminaries and places of education and training for our pastors, ministers, missionaries, and lay ministers. The needs are great across all denominations. More ministers are retiring faster than new ones are finishing their training. More are needed… soon. We need to support those serving now. We need to encourage young people to consider serving God in a full-time role. Each of us needs to share the Good News. Keep this as a prayer priority into 2020. Let your pastors or leaders know that you are praying for them. It is a gift of love that we can share. Stay blessed. Pass it on through the children and be a blessing with each person that you touch now and into the New Year!
