Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me. (Mark 9:37
NRSV Bible)
Children can sure bring us a lot of joy. A many years ago, Matt was swinging on our porch swing, and I, of course, was in front of the T.V. watching a football game. All of the sudden the door flung open and a crying little boy came running in. He had fallen out of the swing. He wasn't seriously hurt. Just a few scrapes. Together we examined the war wounds, and I said how about you sit with me. So together we sat watching football. Soon the pain was forgotten about and Matt started asking questions about how the game of football is played. For someone who loves a blond headed little boy and the game of football, it was a special moment. Children can sure be a lot of fun at times and bring us great joy. At other times, they sure can be a real pain too. But one of the characteristics of a great person is one who welcomes and loves children.
In our scripture reading today, Jesus took a little child into his arms and said, "Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me." Children are a very precious gift from God, and when we welcome them we welcome God. With all of the abuse of children in our world, there is a huge need for us to be great by welcoming and caring for God's beloved children.
Lord Jesus, your love for children is a great example to follow. Help me to do all I can to demonstrate love to the children you have given to me. In Jesus name, Amen.
Ron Newhouse
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