HE TOUCHED THEM

                     "Then they brought little children to Him that He might touch them, but the
                      disciples rebuked those who brought them." Mark 10:13

There are lots of things about these little children we do not know. We do not know their respective ages, or how many they were. We do not know whether they still had parents, whether they were orphans or perhaps from single parent families. We do not know whether they were from wealthy homes, or from poor backgrounds; whether they were born in or out of wedlock.

We do not know whether they were male or female, or whether they had any idea who Jesus was or why there were brought to Him to touch them.

I wonder whose idea it was initially to bring the children to Jesus and why. Maybe they were ill? Or maybe one or two were ill and when the other mothers, or parents, saw Jesus touching these children and making them whole, they thought it would be a good idea if Jesus touched their children as well. Then they would be sure that their children also were blessed. I would have done that if I had been there with my children, I am sure.

We do not know exactly why the disciples rebuked those who brought the children. Maybe Jesus was very tired or they thought that Jesus had a tough enough time dealing with the needs of all the adults, without having to bother with the small children.

What we do know is that Jesus made it very clear that the children were welcome and that He held them in high regard. In fact, this seems to be one of the few incidents we know of where He was displeased with his disciples!

               "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.

They were indeed blessed.

The birth of a child should always be a joyful and exciting event.

How can we, in this day and age, 'bring our children to Jesus'?

By lovingly teaching them about Jesus and His love for them from an early age. Praying for them; kneeling and praying with them. Teaching them to speak directly to the Master, to take their cares to Him, to have a living relationship with Him, to wait to hear His voice. Making sure they understand just how precious they are in the sight of God. Loving them unconditionally. Allowing them to experience our love for God and one another.

Thank You, Lord, for allowing us to know your attitude towards our children. Thank You for loving all children, no matter what colour, culture or nationality, and for blessing our children and making them whole.