Recent Devotions | Devotion Archive

Devotions

Become Like Little Children

St. Matthew 18:1-4
"At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven?" 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. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven."

These words of Jesus are very humbling for us. We oftentimes think we are pretty wise, pretty mature in our thoughts and philosophies, pretty much "with it" in the ways of the world, and even pretty much figure we have a good understanding in matters of faith and religion. After all, we are grown up, mature adults in control of our life, right? Just when we get to feeling pretty good about ourselves and feeling like we've been raised up a couple of notches in life and society, here comes Jesus telling us that unless we "change and become like little children" that we "will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven." What is this all about? The disciples wondered this as well when they wanted an answer to their question of who was the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus' answer certainly surprised them, for it was not what they expected. How could they become children when in fact they were adults?

Throughout history, people with developmental disabilities have often been perceived as 'children in adult bodies'. This has given rise to unfortunate stereotypes of people as having a 'simple trust as a child' or a 'child-like faith' that is in some ways superior to that of people without disabilities. It is very unlikely that people adopt these stereotypes in order to be hurtful or exclusive. Indeed, it is much more likely that they are intended as a compliment! People are simply humbling themselves and elevating others in order to honor the differences they see. However, it also has an unintended result. It can set some people (namely, those with disabilities) aside in a separate group, to be regarded differently by God and other people. Is that really what Jesus had in mind when He spoke to His disciples? Perhaps not. Rather, it could have been a message of clarity intended for all of us – the disciples, you, me, young, old, people with or without disabilities.

As one commentator observed, when Jesus directs us to "turn and become like children", He is telling us to turn away from the goals and delights we have chosen for ourselves and begin to relate to God as to a loving father. One who loves us, cares for us, sees more than us, knows more than us, and wants nothing but a happy and abundant life for us, providing all that we truly need.

Deciding that we know what is best and cutting ourselves off from the guidance of a loving parent, Jesus reminds us, is a pathway to an empty life. Becoming like children, we more fully embrace the unconditional and eternal love of our Father.

Isn't it ironic? Jesus tells us to "become like children" and in so doing shows us how our faith can actually become more mature.

Holy Spirit, always keep and preserve within my heart and life a simple faith as of a child that confidently trusts and believes in God, my loving Father, and Jesus Christ as my Savior and LORD, Who died and rose again for me and all people. I ask it in Jesus' Name. Amen.