November 24, 2021: SOAP #4374:  Matthew 17-19

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 19:13 Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15 When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.

OBSERVATION: There was nothing special about this place.  But, there was something very special about this place.  It is a place called “there!”  It is a place where Jesus paused and took time for little children.  It was a special place for Jesus because children were there!

This place became a special place to the parents.  Their children were their joy!  And Jesus validated their high opinion of their children!  They were important to Him also! 

This place also became a special place for the children.  For those too young to remember, their parents would point out this special place and tell them how the Lord of Glory had laid His hands on them.  For those old enough to remember, they would have special memories flooding their minds whenever they passed by this place. 

APPLICATION:  How unlike Jesus are people who do not take time for children! Children may be an interruption, but they are a divine interruption.  They carry the image of God with great potential!   

PRAYER:  Holy Spirit, make me more like Jesus.  May I not be in such a hurry to move on from THERE when children are around.  Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!