JESUS LOVES CHILDREN!

 It is during VBS or in children’s’ classes that we often sing this song: “Jesus loves the little children, All the children of the world, red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world.” How do we know that? Because the Bible tells us so. Here are a few passages that inform us of the Lord’s high regard and love for children. “Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and  said,” Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me” (Matthew 18:2-5). “But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14). “But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.  Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”  And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them” Mark 10:14-16).

In my mind’s eye I can almost see our Lord pick up a child and give a big hug and say something sweet and special in the child’s ear. It is such a tender scene of Jesus Christ (God incarnate in human flesh) blessing the children and instructing others that they should become as little children if they desired to be acceptable to Him. Children are born into this life pure and sinless. They are not in need of being saved during infancy because they have never been lost!

  Virginia will verify that I love little children! I even stop young mothers in the grocery stores and ask them if I might look at their infant child in their ‘car seat’. To look upon the beautiful and innocent face of a child is to be reminded of one of God’s greatest gifts and blessings. Listen to what the Psalmist said about children: “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate” (Psalm 127:3-5).

 Dearest child, don't be afraid -

You've been wonderfully made;

Extremely special in God's sight

For He created you just right.

Do not doubt Christ's love for you

Or that our Lord is strong and true;

Remember Jesus is your friend

And that His love will never end.

It is important that you know

Jesus will never let you go,

Nor will his love grow cold or fade,

So do not fret; don't be afraid.

                                                                            by Belinda van Rensburg

 - Raymond, 1/30/16