The Pilgrim Path---Mark 10: 13---16

And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.

LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME…

It is wonderful to grasp that even though Jesus’ disciples were perturbed by people bringing their children (Luke’s account=babies) to Him for a blessing---the Savior was wholeheartedly open to receive them and touch them! From all we can ascertain, the young ones liked being around the Master---for He could all of a sudden---take one and say, “unless you have the attitude of a child toward me---you will not enter the Kingdom of God.” The Living Christ was just that spiritually magnetic to humble and needy souls. He could attract them and sustain them.

Children have a way of beginning to figure out: Are you on the level? Are you pretending? Are you the real deal? Are you telling the truth? Do you love them? Well---they got “ALL” that was worth having---when they were in the presence the of the LORD Jesus!

Wow---I am so sorry. I do not always measure up. Please forgive me children. Please Help me, Precious Spirit of the Living God…

This passage has troubled me lately, Mark 9: 42,

“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea.”

This phrase, “little ones”---is not limited to children. It may refer to those “believers” who are weak in the faith / immature in the faith. They are precious to the Savior, and it is an awful thing to make them stumble. Consider that for a moment. You wield influence in people’s lives? How do you use it? In this world “susceptible saints” are led---often led in dangerous paths…

From Dr. William Hendriksen: “Jesus is saying that even if such a sin is planned against only one of those precious in his sight, physical death for such a seducer, death of the most gruesome kind, would be preferable. He is saying that it would be better that a heavy (literally donkey-weight) millstone be hung about his neck and he be cast into the sea.”

From the Reformation Study Bible, Mark 9: 42, “Derailing the faith of those of little worldly importance through an inconsiderate egotistical use of power calls for the most severe punishment.”

The LORD Jesus Christ wants those who are precious in His sight--- built up and protected in our most Holy Faith. God Help Us All.

From Bishop J. C. Ryle: “The Great Head of the Church found time to take special notice of children. Although His time in earth was precious, and grown-up men and women were perishing on every side for lack of knowledge, He did not think little boys and girls of small importance. He had room in His mighty heart even for them. He declared by His outward gesture and deed, His good will toward them. And not least, He has left on record words concerning them, which His Church should never forget, “Of such is the kingdom of God.” We must never allow ourselves to suppose that little children’s souls may be safely let alone. Their characters for life depend exceedingly on what they see and hear during their first seven years. They are never too young to learn evil and sin. They are never too young to receive religious impressions…They have each a soul which will live forever in heaven or in hell. We cannot begin too soon to endeavor to bring them to Christ.

From Samuel Rutherford: He taketh the children in his arms when they come to a deep water; at least, when they lose ground, and are put to swim, then his hand is under their chin.

HYMN

I am Jesus’ little lamb, ever glad at heart I am;

For my Shephard gently guides me, knows my need, and well provides me,

Loves me every day the same, even calls me by my name.

Henrietta L. von Hayn, 1778

Grace and Peace in Jesus Christ Our LORD, Pastor Jason