People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
—Mark 10:13-16

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Come to the King!
By Jennifer Kane

Come to the King with a giggle and grin,
No need to be perfect, no need to “win.”
He opens His arms and calls out your name,
Loving you deeply, with no hint of shame.

Skip to His side with your questions and cheer,
He smiles and says, “Child, I’m so glad you’re here!”
No heavy heart and no fear in your eyes—
He lifts you with joy and delights in your cries.

The grown-ups may whisper, “You’re little, be still!”
But Jesus says, “Let them! It’s My Father’s will.
For theirs is the Kingdom—bright, golden, and true.
The ones who believe with hearts clear and new.”

So laugh and believe, run fast to His side,
With wonder and trust, no need for pride.
For Heaven is waiting, not far, not wide—
It opens its gates to the child inside.

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Scripture: Mark 10:13-16

This world too often prizes personal achievement, independence, and self-sufficiency. However Jesus challenges our assumption about how life works with a simple, powerful truth: “Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” (Mark 10:15)

The scene is tender. Parents bring their children to Jesus for a blessing — not just for healing, but in a spirit of dedication. But the disciples, perhaps thinking they were protecting Jesus from interruption, try to send the families away. Jesus’ response is immediate and emotional: He is greatly displeased. He gathers the children in His arms, places His hands on them, and fervently blesses them.

Why would Jesus make such a strong statement about becoming like children?

Children don’t come to Jesus with impressive résumés or religious credentials. They come with empty hands and open hearts. They trust, they depend, and they receive freely. They know their need and aren’t ashamed of it.

Jesus isn’t calling us to a childish faith — one that’s fickle or shallow — but to a childlike faith: trusting, dependent, and humble. Children don’t earn love or blessing. They simply receive. And that is how we must receive the kingdom — not as workers trying to earn our keep, but as children recognizing the open arms of our Father.

Are you trying to earn God’s acceptance or blessing by your performance?
Are you hesitant to come to God with your needs, fearing you must “clean up” first?

Let the example of a child correct your thinking. Children don’t wait until they’re worthy to climb into their father’s lap. They come as they are. And so must we.

Just as Jesus took the children in His arms, He longs to draw us close — not because of our merit, but because of His love.

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Lord Jesus, help me to come to You like a child — with open hands, trusting heart, and no pretense. Forgive me for the times I’ve tried to earn what You freely give. Teach me to receive Your kingdom with childlike faith, and to lead others — especially the young — to Your loving embrace. Thank you, Father, Amen.

May 6 2025