March 3, 2016:  SOAP #2282:   

Scripture:  Mark (NIV) 10:13 People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 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. 15 I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.

Observation:   Jesus could have stopped after correcting his disciples, and moved on to the next person coming His way.  But He stopped and ministered personally to the children.  His ministry to the children consisted of three things:  First, he took them in his arms.  I see that he was holding them near his heart, an action communicating His love for them.  Second, he put his hands on them.   I see that as a tender, purposeful touch, an action communicating His approval.  They were acceptable to Him just as they were.   Third, he blessed them.  I see that as words communicating how valuable He considered them.  The children were worth his time and personal attention.

Application:   Children are worth my time and personal attention.  They may interrupt, but they are not an interruption.  When circumstances require that I make them wait for my attention, I must be careful to communicate that it is not because they are of little value.

Prayer:   Lord, help me communicate love and approval and blessing to the children you bring into my life.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!