24.163 | LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME | Mark 10:13-16 | God’s Word for Today with Pastor Nazario Sinon

God’s Word For Today

Text: Mark 10:13-16 ESV

13 And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” 16 And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.

LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME

Jesus must have endeared families. Parents were bringing their children for Him to touch and bless them. The word "bless" is from the Greek root word 'eulogeo' and can mean to praise, celebrate, or consecrate the thing or person being blessed. To bless someone is to do work for their benefit or to hope or pray for one's benefit. Perhaps, the parents think Jesuss a respected rabbi. He can pray that God will act on behalf of their children. Though, they don’t understand at this moment that He is God, and He genuinely delights in the children.

But, the disciples prevented them. For them, these kids maybe were nuisances. Although they see Jesus’ tenderness to the weak and powerless, they rebuked the kids flocking in toward Jesus. Certainly, they insulate Him from any mob (Mark 3:7–9; 4:1)

Jesus was indignant when He saw it. The word "indignant" is from the Greek root word ‘aganakteō’, which is used for irritation or exasperation. In modern terms, it refers to someone who is "irked." Up to his point, they did not understand Jesus’ heart for the least and lost. Jesus was angry but did not sin.[Heb 4:15]

He commanded them, “Let the children come to me; 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.” Children are part of God’s kingdom too. Jesus knows the disciples’ hearts. They have a vague idea about God’s kingdom. In their minds, this kingdom certainly doesn't include giving importance to the powerless. Jesus compares their attitude to that of the Gentile rulers who lord over their subjects (Mark 10:42). He tells them, once again, that He is there to manifest the kingdom of God

And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them. Here, He takes time away from His journey to Jerusalem and the cross to show love to the least of these. As parents, we must prioritize our kids like He does. Parents still have a mysterious place in their children's lives. And, their relationship with God can reflect on their kids (1 Cor 7:14). God gives every parent the important and honorable duties of praying for and guiding children. They are to ask His blessings and draw them to a relationship with Him.

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