How can we remove barriers preventing children from approaching Jesus in our lives? The Scene in Mark 10:13 “Now people were bringing little children to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them, but the disciples rebuked those who brought them.” Common Barriers Today • Busy schedules that crowd out spiritual conversation • Adults viewing children as interruptions rather than ministry opportunities • Environments that are cold, formal, or confusing to young minds • Hypocrisy—professing faith yet modeling contrary behavior • Complex language or traditions that leave children feeling excluded • Digital distractions that drown out the still, small voice Clearing the Path in Our Homes • Live Deuteronomy 6:6-7: saturate daily routines with God’s Word—at meals, bedtime, drive-time. • Keep Bibles within reach and in versions children can read. 2 Timothy 3:15 reminds us that “from childhood” Scripture can make one “wise for salvation.” • Guard family time; set devices aside and invite children to share questions and insights. • Model quick confession and forgiveness to show the gospel in action (Ephesians 4:32). • Celebrate obedience; gently correct disobedience without crushing spirits (Ephesians 6:4). • Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness—stories stick. Psalm 78:4 calls us to “tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD.” Clearing the Path in Our Churches • Ensure welcoming greeters and clear signage so families feel at ease. • Train volunteers to value every child as a divine appointment, echoing Jesus’ words in Mark 10:14. • Keep lessons Scripture-rich yet age-appropriate; avoid moralism without the gospel. • Pair older believers with younger ones for Titus 2-style mentorship. • Provide opportunities for children to serve—ushering, singing, simple acts of mercy—affirming they are part of the body now (1 Corinthians 12:27). • Maintain safe policies that protect children physically and emotionally; nothing should hinder their trust. Clearing the Path in Our Communities • Engage schools through reading programs or after-school clubs that share truth winsomely. • Host neighborhood events where Scripture is woven naturally into crafts, sports, or music. • Advocate for policies that uphold life, family, and parental rights, echoing Psalm 127:3—children are a heritage from the Lord. • Practice hospitality: open homes for study groups, meals, game nights where Christ is honored. • Support foster and adoption ministries, picturing God’s heart for the fatherless (James 1:27). Keeping the Gate Open • Stay watchful: barriers creep back when vigilance fades (1 Peter 5:8). • Pray continually for tender hearts—yours and theirs—so nothing calcifies into cynicism. • Rejoice when children come; Jesus “took the children in His arms, placed His hands on them, and blessed them.” (Mark 10:16) • Commit afresh each day: whatever brings children closer to Jesus, pursue it; whatever pushes them away, remove it—without delay. |
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