Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, open my ears to hear what you have to say to me; open my heart to love your word, and open my mind to understand your truth.
The children come to Jesus, brought by their parents. I can imagine the excitement and anticipation – what will he do, how will he impact my child, what will he say? I'm sure there were many tired parents holding out for a blessing, restless children wondering what the big deal was, and who was this Jesus? All of this energy was met with the frustration and anger of the disciples.
As someone who has only recently become a parent, through adopting a three-year-old, I can say that I would be quite put out by that reaction. Is this attitude a reflection of the real Jesus? If we get closer, will we get rejected? Jesus' response in verse 18 is, ‘Let the children come to me.’ He even went on to say that unless we come like children, we cannot inherit the Kingdom of God.
I have learnt so much about God’s love for us as a father, especially as I'm learning to become a parent. Even when I am tired, I will openly enjoy my son running into my arms. The thought of excluding him creates such pain in my mind and heart. We are God’s children and unless we come in simplicity, it will be difficult for us. His heart is open to us; we have access to him.
Dear Lord, I pray that I would come as a little child to you. I ask that I would receive your love for me, that I would help others come to you, and would never get in their way. Amen.
Nigel Langford is Bible Society's Head of Church Relations
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