Jesus and the Children - "Let Them Come to Me"
Jesus and the Children: "Let Them Come to Me"
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." — Matthew 19:14
Few scenes in the Gospels are as tender and heartwarming as Jesus welcoming children with open arms. In a time when children were often overlooked, Jesus stopped everything to bless them, showing us the value of innocence, faith, and unconditional love.
This story isn’t just a sweet moment—it’s a powerful lesson for all of us.
The Scene: A Busy Day of Teaching
Jesus had been traveling from town to town, teaching about God’s Kingdom, healing the sick, and performing miracles. Crowds followed Him everywhere, pressing in to hear His words or hoping for a miracle.
One day, as Jesus sat teaching, parents began bringing their children to Him. Some were tiny infants, others young boys and girls. They wanted Jesus to lay His hands on them, to pray for them, to bless them.
But the disciples—perhaps thinking Jesus was too important or too busy for such small matters—tried to stop the parents.
"No, no, not now. The Master is teaching. He doesn’t have time for children."
They scolded the parents, shooing them away.
But Jesus saw what was happening.
And His response changed everything.
"Let Them Come to Me"
Jesus turned to His disciples, His voice firm but gentle.
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them."
The disciples froze.
"For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
With that, Jesus opened His arms. The children rushed forward, laughing, some shy, others eager. He gathered them close, placing His hands on their heads, blessing each one.
Imagine the scene:
A little girl, no older than five, clinging to His robe.
A boy grinning as Jesus tousled his hair.
A mother weeping as Jesus whispered a prayer over her baby.
This was no rushed formality. Jesus took His time, loving each child individually.
Why Did Jesus Make This a Priority?
In ancient times, children were often seen as insignificant—too young to contribute, too simple to understand spiritual matters. Even the disciples thought Jesus had more important things to do.
But Jesus saw what others missed.
1. Children Have Simple, Pure Faith
Kids don’t overcomplicate things. They trust easily, love freely, and believe without skepticism. Jesus wasn’t saying faith should be childish—but it should be childlike. Unpretentious. Full of trust.
2. No One Is Too Small for God’s Love
By welcoming children, Jesus showed that God’s Kingdom isn’t just for the wise, the powerful, or the "important." It’s for everyone—even those the world overlooks.
3. True Greatness Is Found in Humility
Jesus later told His disciples, "Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 18:3)
Children don’t pretend to have it all together. They know they need help. That’s the kind of faith God honors.
What This Means for Us Today
This story isn’t just about kids—it’s about all of us.
For Parents & Guardians
Never underestimate the power of bringing your children to Jesus—through prayer, through teaching, through love. The disciples tried to block them, but Jesus wanted them.
For Those Who Feel Unimportant
Maybe you think God is too busy for you. That your problems are too small. But Jesus stopped His teaching for children. He will always make time for you.
For the "Too Religious"
The disciples thought they were doing the right thing by keeping order. But sometimes, our rules get in the way of love. Jesus cares more about people than protocols.
Final Thought: Come as You Are
Jesus didn’t demand that the children clean up first, recite Scripture, or prove their worth. He simply said, "Let them come."
That’s His message to you today.
You don’t need to have perfect faith.
You don’t need to be "important" in the world’s eyes.
You just need to come.
Like a child—trusting, hopeful, and knowing you are loved.
Because to Him, you are exactly who the Kingdom is for.
Reflection Questions:
When have you felt "too small" for God’s attention? How does this story change that?
How can you cultivate a more childlike faith?
Who in your life needs to hear that Jesus welcomes them as they are?
Let’s learn from the little ones—and run to Him with open hearts.
Amen.
Did this story touch you? Share it with someone who needs to remember how much Jesus loves them!