What can we learn from Jesus' actions in Matthew 19:15 about blessing others? The Verse in Focus “After He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.” (Matthew 19:15) What Jesus Actually Does • Receives the children brought to Him • Physically lays His hands on them • Speaks blessing (v. 13 mentions prayer) • Moves forward without fanfare Why the Laying on of Hands Matters • Tangible sign of compassion (Mark 10:16) • Biblical pattern for imparting blessing (Genesis 48:14; Numbers 6:22-27) • Affirms worth and dignity of the recipient—especially the overlooked (Luke 18:15-17) Key Lessons for Us About Blessing Others • Availability over agenda – Jesus pauses despite a busy itinerary; so can we. • Touch that communicates care – Appropriate, respectful contact often conveys God’s love more powerfully than words. • Prayerful intercession – Blessing is not mere sentiment; it invites God’s active favor (cf. 2 Corinthians 13:14). • Quiet service, not self-promotion – “He went on from there.” No spotlight necessary; the Father sees (Matthew 6:4). • Inclusivity in the kingdom – The least likely—children, the marginalized—are first in line for blessing (James 2:1). Scriptural Reinforcements • Acts 6:6; 13:3—early church lays hands when sending and serving. • 1 Timothy 4:14—spiritual gifts affirmed by laying on of hands. • Hebrews 6:2—“instruction about the laying on of hands” listed among foundational teachings. • Proverbs 11:25—“He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” • 1 Peter 3:9—“Bless, because to this you were called.” Practical Ways to Bless Others Today 1. Stop and listen—give undivided attention for a moment. 2. Pray aloud with someone, not just for them. 3. Offer an encouraging touch—handshake, pat on the shoulder—when culturally appropriate. 4. Speak Scripture over a person’s life (Numbers 6:24-26). 5. Serve quietly: deliver a meal, write a note, send anonymous help. 6. Include those society overlooks—children, elderly, disabled, refugees—just as Jesus did. Living It Out Blessing others is less about grand gestures and more about everyday moments where Christ’s love flows through us. Follow Jesus’ example: reach out, lay hold of God’s grace in prayer, share it freely, and move on to the next assignment with a humble heart. |
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