March 1, 2025

Mark 10:13-16

Today, people were bringing their children to be touched by Jesus, but the disciples were telling them not to.  Jesus became indignant and said, “Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.”  Then he embraced and blessed them, placing his hands on them.

This means that first of all, with the open heart of a child, we can connect with the kingdom of God. A well-developed intellect and great knowledge are not needed; in some ways, they can get in the way if we let them.  Secondly, being attracted to Jesus and going towards him with the open heart of a child is really all that is needed.  He will embrace us and bless us, putting his hands on us.  We do not need to be clever, strong, self-reliant, or any of those admirable qualities.  Just give him our adult burdens, and he will give us childlike rest.