Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
May 2, 2022: SOAP #4533:  1Chronicles 16; Psalm 106; Matthew 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: The disciples were watching out for Jesus and tried to stop people from interrupting him with unimportant matters.   Jesus was needed for more important issues.  The disciples needed an adjustment in their priorities and Jesus did not hesitate to make the correction.  Rather than hindering them, they should be encouraging them to “come” to Jesus. 

Instead of using adults to teach children, Jesus used children to teach adults!  (Matthew 18:2-6)   Children are important!!!  Jesus takes it personal when we welcome children; He takes it as though we welcome Him!

APPLICATION: The value of my time can never be compared to the value of His time!  If Jesus took time to recognize and bless children, so should I.   After all, He is my example. 

After stepping down from being the senior pastor, I asked the Lord what I could do.  I was still healthy and able to be useful.  What would He have me do?  I asked the question as I was at a stop sign.  In turning the corner, I saw a school bus with a sign “drivers needed.”  The Lord said, “You can drive a school bus.”  So, 12 years ago, I graduated from senior pastor to children’s minister.  What a privilege is mine. 

PRAYER:  Holy Spirit, help me to be like Jesus to the lives of the children you have placed in my life, my home, my neighborhood, and my bus.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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