Monday, August 8, 2011

Suffer the Children

Mark 10:13-16
13 And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them.
14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
16 And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

Suffer the Children

School started today in my son's district. Same for several other counties in our area. Some children went back last week. Some won't start until September. Others never stopped since they go year round.

Yet, what about their spiritual development? Is going to church enough? What do they know about the Christ you serve? Do they see what Christian service looks like?

No, we aren't to be ruled by our children, but they do have important lessons to teach us about humility, receiving, joy. And yet, we...not just parents, but anyone who knows a child, are responsible for their well being...physical, mental and spiritual. What they come to know, they come to know through us.

Jesus litteraly embraced children. I'm moved in particular by the image in verse 16 above - And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them. Not just a passing word or a pat, but an embrace. And these children took in all that He gave.

Jesus told us they are an example to us of how to receive the Kingdom. Then, He showed them how the Kingdom gives. In being 'Christ-like', we should strive to do the same.

Whether you're a parent, a relative or just a friend of a child, remember they are looking at you to live the example of what they learn and hear about in church. Children are often great little lie-detectors, but that doesn't mean they know how to follow truth. That's our job. We should pursue truth for our own salvation, but know that our efforts help make the path clear for them.

Suffer the children to come to Jesus. Make the way plain, and the path clear. If you don't know the way, we have maps and "JPS" (Jesus Positioning Systems) at the ready at Fellowship that we'd be happy to share. It doesn't matter where you are in your life, your walk, or your growth. Just come.

Matthew 11:25-30
25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.
26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.
27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden isl light.

Praying for peace in your schools, as wel as peace in your hearts.

Lifeline is the evangelistic ministry of Fellowship Church in Jonesboro, GA. Feel free to share this message. Previous Lifeline mailings can also be reached through the church website www.fcchosengeneration.com on the Lifeline link. For questions or to subscribe, send an email to fellowship_lifeline@yahoo.com. You can reach the church at chosen.gen@att.net.

Fellowship Church
Where Passions Become Reality
Because you are a CHOSEN GENERATION!

455 Hwy 138 W, Ste C
Jonesboro, GA 30238
Alton Watkins, Pastor

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