The disciples asked Jesus who would be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. My first reaction... Oh no they didn't?!? It seems so immature, self centered, and arrogant for them to ask that of Jesus. As if they had been an integral part of His ministry miracles. Jesus didn't miss a beat, and true to form He gives them an unforgettable illustration. "And he called to him a little child, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye turn, and become as little children, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. " So what does it mean for me to get in touch with my inner child? What is the one thing that all children have in common? They all are utterly helpless to thrive and survive it on their own!! No matter how clever, strong, intelligent, or talented they are, they will still be dependent upon others. Ironically we often miss God's sovereignty when we experience tragedies. They are the very things that bring out the little child in us. God is giving us the opportunity to BECOME as children. Unfortunately my initial response, like the disciples, is to act like an adult. God has used ALS to help me BECOME a child physically and in turn see my dependence on
Him more clearly. Slowly but surely I am learning that I am truly safe in His arms!
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 18:1- 4
Song: Safe in the Arms of Jesus: Michael O'Brien