Transforming Encounters: The 40-Day Challenge (Luke)Näide

Blessing, spiritual and physical well-being - what parent doesn't want that for their child? I’m starting from the fact that every prayer said over my child from birth to today has been important to me. Thank God, no one denies us as parents this privilege.

In today’s text, we read that “they” were approaching Jesus. We don’t know if they are just mothers, or fathers as well, but it doesn’t matter. If they are mothers, we know their low position in the society of that time. If they were fathers, they probably did not belong to any sect or political party, and were despised by the Pharisees because of their ignorance. Jesus himself was condemned for mixing with them. And here also are the children, whose position in society was almost insignificant.

Despite everything, “they” notice Jesus, and absolutely do not want to miss this opportunity. He is so different. He is not unreachable and untouchable, he is full of grace and truth. They felt free to approach him, and truly, they were not disappointed. Jesus notices them and focuses all his attention on the children - brought to him by parents aware of both their responsibility and blessing. The disciples did not understand this. They thought of themselves as important because Jesus called them. However, Jesus emphasizes that the kingdom of God belongs precisely to those who are like children and do not think of themselves as important.

Think about whether you are sometimes like the disciples who, in Jesus’ name, want to decide who is worthy of His attention.