How can we apply Jesus' example in Matthew 19:15 to our community? The moment Jesus shows us • “And after He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.” (Matthew 19:15) • The scene follows His command to “Let the little children come to Me.” • Two simple actions stand out—He “placed His hands on them” and then “went on.” Truths to carry forward • Personal touch communicates dignity and worth (see Mark 10:16). • Blessing the vulnerable is central, not peripheral, to ministry (Psalm 127:3; Proverbs 22:6). • Interruptibility marks a servant heart—He paused His journey for people. • Ministry continues; after blessing, He moved on, showing balance between compassion and mission. Living the verse together • Greet people—especially children—by name; kneel or sit to their eye level. • Offer a gentle hand on a shoulder while praying, if appropriate and welcome. • Schedule “margin moments” each week—time held open for unexpected needs. • Keep moving forward: serve, then step into the next assignment God places before you. Specific steps for different groups Children • Volunteer in Sunday school; arrive early to welcome families. • Create kid-friendly spaces at church events. • Invite youth to read Scripture publicly, modeling value and trust. Elderly and shut-ins • Bring communion and companionship; a simple hand-clasp speaks volumes. • Encourage children’s choir visits to nursing homes—inter-generational blessing in action. Neighbors in need • Host quarterly clothing swaps or food drives (James 2:15-16). • Pair each donation with a spoken blessing and an offer of prayer. Church body • Build a culture of “holy interruptions”: leaders stay accessible between services. • Practice quick, sincere affirmation—“I’m thankful for you”—paired with a handshake or hug. Community at large • Partner with local schools for reading programs; volunteers sit beside students, showing presence. • Open church facilities for support groups, sports, and arts outreach, placing caring believers on site. Confidence in God’s Word • Scripture is trustworthy and literal; Jesus really placed His hands on real children. • That historical act sets a pattern: tangible love today proves genuine faith (1 John 3:18). • Obeying the text brings blessing to others and keeps the church aligned with Christ’s heart. Move forward—hands open • Start each day ready to pause, touch, bless, then continue the work God assigns. • “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other…” (Ephesians 4:32) • As we embody Matthew 19:15, our community will feel the literal hands-on love of Jesus. |
    |