Day 25 - Let the Little Children Come to Me

by Kelsey Phillips

Matthew 19:14

"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

As we continue our journey through Lent, a season of reflection and renewal, Jesus’ words remind us of the childlike faith we are called to embrace. The disciples, thinking they were protecting Jesus from interruptions and distractions, tried to keep the children away. But Jesus, in his love and tenderness, welcomed them with open arms. He declared that the kingdom of God belongs to those who come with the trust, humility, and openness of a child. 

Lent is often a time of sacrifice and repentance, but it is also a time to re-examine our faith. Do we approach Jesus with the same innocence and dependence as a child? Or have we allowed our life – our worries, pride, fears and doubts to hinder us from simply trusting him? Children run freely to those they trust, expecting only to be loved. They believe without hesitation. Children love without conditions. Children will trust-fall into those that they love and trust. How often are we loving Jesus without condition? Are we trusting that Jesus is going to catch us when we trust-fall into him? Jesus calls us to that same kind of faith. He does not ask for perfection but for a heart willing to believe, love, receive, and depend on him fully. 

Today, take these steps to embrace childlike faith: 

1. Celebrate Small Joys – Children find delight in the simple things. Take today to enjoy God’s creation, and be present in the moment. 

2. Encourage Childlike Faith in Others – Whether it’s sharing a Bible story with a child, praying with a friend, or showing kindness, look for ways to reflect God’s love with openness and joy like a child’s. 

3. Simplify Your Faith – Spend time with God today with prayer and scripture.

What is one area of your life where you need to trust Jesus more fully? How can you simplify your faith and come to him with the openness of a child?

Prayer 

Dear Lord, please help me to have faith like that of a child. Help me to love you without conditions. Please help me learn to trust you fully without anything getting in the way. Thank you for catching me with open arms when I fall into you.