Childlike Faith-Profound Simplicity
JOHN SHIRK – In Matthew 18, the disciples came to Jesus and asked him, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
The disciples went through a stage when they were preoccupied with “Kingdom status.” Who would receive the places of honor in God’s kingdom? Jesus places a little child among them to show that greatness came through humility. A little child depends on their parents to take care of their needs, and leans on them for support. In a similar way, Jesus invites us to lean on Him with our concerns. He affirms His love for us over and over again.
The story is told of Karl Barth, who was a theologian with a deep knowledge of the Scriptures. Someone asked him, “what was the greatest theological discovery of your time?” His answer came from a song that he learned as a child. “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” This is the kind of statement that transforms lives from the inside out.
That’s today’s Mission Statement for representing Jesus in the world today.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
This teaching was brought home to me this morning by my 6 year old. We were running late and the radio was on in the living room. Then the Zondervan production came on. This was around 6:45 this morning. With her coat on and back pack on her shoulders she looked at me and said “It’s ok to be a little late for school mommy. The God show is on, that’s more important.” I was so blessed and humbled by this. She and her 5 year old brother were kneeling on the floor listening to the presentation, so I got on the floor with them. I was glad that I did 🙂
We have started homeschooling this year. My wife and I are learning to be childlike again. My children teach me more than I teach them.
Thanks for a great lunch hour of music and praise.