The disciples anticipated Jesus setting up a new administration in his kingdom. They were among the closest to him, surely, they would become men of position and power in this new rule. Jesus answered them quite opposite of what they supposed. Calling a child to him, He taught them a precious truth- become like little children if you want to be great in the kingdom of God.  

The first words Jesus spoke to some of the disciples when he met them was “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” Mathew 4:19. And simply “Follow me” to another, in Matthew 9:9. Their response then was that they immediately followed- similar to the child in this text, without question, and with a sense of trust. They were more childlike when they first started their journey with Jesus than here in Matthew 18. Now Jesus was telling them that they needed to change or they were going to miss the kingdom altogether. By becoming like little children, Jesus was calling them to a position of humility instead of power.  

Being great in God’s kingdom requires the laying down of pride in the pursuit of position, and power in order to take on humility, in the pursuit of servitude, and obedience. Becoming like children involves many things such as having an openness to learning the truths of His word. We can also grow to have an unquestioning faith, as a child would, in Abba Father to do what He says that He will do. And our trust in Him can have us looking to God to equip us and guide us to live for Him. As children we do not “lean on our own understanding but in all our ways acknowledge Him and He will direct our path.” Proverbs 3:6. Children often exhibit a joyful expectation in the goodness of God. Loving our neighbor is less effortless as children. It is simply because Jesus says to that is enough reason to love one’s neighbor without taking on an attitude of prejudice for children don’t see color or status. Those are a few ways we become like children, but Jesus also compels us to welcome children.

To truly receive or welcome a child is not just tolerating their presence. Embrace their presence if not physically then with your undivided attention. Listen to them, care about what matters to them, answer their questions, make yourself approachable and whatever you do point them to the Heavenly Father in both word and action. 

Querido Padre Celestial,

Teach me to lay down my pride and embrace the humility of a child. Help me to trust You fully, follow You without hesitation, and serve others with a pure heart. Make my faith simple yet strong, my love genuine, and my obedience unwavering. May my life reflect the childlike spirit that draws me closer to You and welcomes others into Your presence. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

This week, intentionally practice childlike humility and trust. When faced with a challenge, instead of overanalyzing or leaning on your own understanding, pause and pray, “Father, I trust You with this.”'