Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 19 & 20. Luke 18: 1-22.
“Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.” – Luke 18:17 (KJV)
I was with my son and their children recently. One of their children, a boy of seven years had eaten what he shouldn’t have taken because it had not been given him and the parents scolded him. He was remorseful. A few minutes later, they were asking a question on something different and he came forward quickly contributing without any reference to the incident that had just happened. I looked at him, laughed and also acknowledged the freedom and innocence of children. I felt if it had been an older person, he would probably still be thinking of the punishment he had undergone that he would miss out on the next opportunity to rejoice with others. No wonder Jesus said in Luke 18:17 (KJV), “Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.”
This speaks of complete innocence as children have no room for grudges, malice and such vices. They show unconditional love and take issues on the face of it without reading meanings into them. They are easily trusting and follow instructions as directed like a sheep. They are free with people. This is the way God wants us to relate with each other and with him and this gives us a good relationship with God Almighty.
It was unconditional love of Christ that made him die for us while we were yet sinners. (Romans 5:8). Even while he was being crucified on the cross without committing any sin, his show of love is well captured in Luke 23:34 (KJV), “Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.”
So as disciples, these are examples we should follow in our show of love to both friends and enemies. No wonder the Lord Jesus said in Luke 6:35 (KJV), “But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.”
Prayer point: Father, give me a child heart in my relationship with you and fellow human beings in Jesus name.
Brother Biodun Oyapero.