How can we "welcome a little child" in our daily interactions today? Jesus’ Clear Invitation “And whoever welcomes one such child in My name welcomes Me.” (Matthew 18:5) The words are plain, direct, and binding. When the Lord speaks of welcoming, He means literal, everyday reception of real children—receiving them as if He Himself were walking through the door. Why Children Matter to the Kingdom • Mark 9:37 echoes the same charge: welcoming a child is welcoming both Christ and “the One who sent” Him. • Matthew 19:14 shows Jesus refusing to let anyone block children from His presence. • Psalm 127:3 calls children “a heritage from the LORD,” not a burden. Practical Ways to Welcome Literal Children • Clear-eyed value ― see each child as a direct gift from God. Speak words that affirm their worth. • Unhurried time ― put the phone down, step away from distractions, and give undivided attention. • Active listening ― kneel or sit to eye level, listen to their stories, fears, and questions with patience. • Protection and safety ― create environments—home, church, school—where no harm or ridicule is tolerated (Matthew 18:6). • Instruction in truth ― open Scripture with them (Proverbs 22:6). Sing, read, and memorize verses together. • Encouragement of gifts ― notice talents early and provide tools, lessons, and holy guidance so they flourish for God’s glory. Extending the Principle to Adults with Childlike Hearts • Humility first ― Matthew 18:4 ties greatness to humility; treat those who seem small or overlooked with the same honor. • Hospitality to the quiet and shy ― invite newcomers, the socially awkward, the elderly, and the marginalized into conversations and activities. • Patience with spiritual infants ― nurture new believers gently, celebrating small steps of growth instead of demanding instant maturity (Romans 15:1). Guardrails That Protect the Innocent • Watch speech ― sarcasm and harshness can crush tender spirits (Ephesians 4:29). • Guard media ― filter what children hear and see; refuse entertainment that normalizes sin. • Swift repentance ― if impatience or anger wounds a child, apologize immediately; model humility. Everyday Expressions You Can Start Today • Keep a child’s Bible on the coffee table and read a short passage aloud at dinner. • Let the child pray first when the family gathers to bless a meal. • Offer a warm greeting and remember children’s names at church entrances and classrooms. • Carry simple supplies—stickers, crayons, snacks—to ease a restless child in public places. • Send handwritten notes or texts to the parents, affirming specific virtues you see in their children. Motivation Anchored in Christ Welcoming children is not sentimentality; it is worship. Jesus identifies so closely with little ones that to embrace them is to embrace Him. Live this out, and your home, church, and community will proclaim a living picture of the Kingdom of heaven. |
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