Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
May 2, 2024: SOAP #5264: 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 looking out for Jesus.  He was important and should not be interrupted with insignificant issues.  They rebuked the adults who brought children to Jesus.   Jesus did not wait until the disciples were alone with Him to correct the issue.  He immediately corrected the disciples in public.

Children are not insignificant!  They are not to be considered an interruption!  They were too important to be overlooked!  In placing His hands on the children, Jesus did not give them significance; He merely recognized the significance they already had as being made in the image of God.  They already had significance because their lives would pass on into eternity.  …because they had angels assigned to represent them (Matthew 18:10).  …because their lives held so much potential. 

Of course, the One who created them and would soon give His life for them would not allow them to be overlooked!  

APPLICATION:  Blest are the people who serve in church nurseries, or work in children’s ministries, or take care of orphans!  They are doing the ministry of Jesus.  They have these verses and many others to emphasize the importance of children.  They can stand in their faith praying for the needs of the children.  In prayer, they can quote the very words of Jesus regarding the importance of children.  In prayer, they can bring the “little children to Him” because “the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as them.”

These little children carry the image of the One who became a baby in a manger.  He made them; He knows what they need!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, as you sent the magi with gifts to provide for the Christ-child, send provision for the orphans being cared for by your people today.  In Jesus Name…Amen

Pastor Leon
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Just a note:  Pastors and church leaders, like Jesus, set a good example of valuing the children in your congregations.  Personally encourage the parents.  Ask God to give you a personal way of ministering to the children in your fellowship.