March,
2010
“Let
the little children come to me, and do not stop them;
for it is to such as these that the Kingdom of Heaven belong.”
(NRSV)
Within
the Markan account of this story, Jesus was “indignant”
because his disciples tried to spare him the intrusion of
the mothers and their children. Both Matthew and Mark make
it known that our faith must be as a little child to receive
the kingdom of heaven. We are not to be childish, but to
have a childlike faith. These verses point out the importance
of religious education for children. Individuals have often
asked if it is right to force the mind of children into
a mould. A wise individual does not allow children to choose
their own food or books. In many matters the wisdom of the
parent is needed. Why not within the area of religion? The
choice of religion cannot be left until that person has
come of age. They will be learning many things from friends
and acquaintances, why not religion from parents? These
particular verses underscore the importance of religion
for children and the necessity for children being welcomed
into the family of the church.
The method is clear. Learning about who Jesus is and how
to pray is vital to a child’s religious education.
Children depend upon adults for guidance and emotional as
well as physical support. With this world being primarily
for adults, it is good for us to remember that the Kingdom
of Heaven belongs to those with childlike faith. We can
learn a lesson from their faith, hope and trusting nature.
Remember the words of an old folk song regarding children.
We
are to: “Bless the beats and the children, give them
shelter from the storm, keep them safe, keep them warm…”
Shalom, Pastor
Steve
