March 30 - Childlike Faith

Matthew 18:1-14

“And whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me.” (v. 5 NASB)

I visited an orphanage in Israel that was unlike any orphanage in the United States. That particular institution had started after the 1967 war when children were literally homeless on the streets. A Jewish rabbi took pity on them and started a home for them where they lived for the rest of their childhood, then they went off to do their required service in the Israeli army. The children were never “adopted” like those in the US—it wasn’t that kind of orphanage. The other children became their “family.” The children at this Jewish orphanage in Israel (pictured below) were happy, attached to their friends and welcoming to visitors.

The disciples question to Jesus was, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven?”  Silly question---it is the King. But Jesus doesn’t say that. He says you won’t even get into Heaven unless you become humble like a little child. He encourages them to welcome little children in His name and not to cause them to sin.

So sit at the King’s feet---imagine yourself like a child---and bring your friends. Greet them, receive them into your home or your life like other kids---and have a party. Kids love parties. Make every meal, every time you are together like a party. Jesus loved parties, too. He loved to sit around, or recline around, a table with friends and eat and teach. Be a kid again…or still. And while you are at it, keep yourself humble and holy.

Lord, let’s party! I rejoice in your presence and long to have you join my family, friends and me at a table filled with fun foods---kid foods.

© 2011 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.