Touched by Grace - the Healing Miracles of JesusSample

The Blessed Touch

Matthew 19:13-15 (NIV) tells of a time when Jesus touched all ages. “Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.”

In this tender scene, Jesus welcomes children by touching and blessing them. This act shows His love for the innocent and His desire for all to come to Him, highlighting the inclusivity of His ministry. Were any of the children lame, sick, blind, or deaf? The text doesn’t say anything, but I would assume some had some sort of sickness. However, these verses focus on the act of Jesus’ blessing, taking actions on the Father’s heart for His people.

Jesus overlooked the disciples' remarks and instead laid hands on the children and blessed them. This loving act shows that Jesus welcomes the least among us, offering hope to families and reminding them that the kingdom of God belongs to humble and open people. The emphasis is on Jesus' love for the children and His statement that the kingdom of heaven belongs to such things as these.

So why would the disciples discourage the children from approaching Jesus? There could be a few reasons: In the Jewish culture, children were often seen as less significant than adults, and there may have been a belief that Jesus' time and attention were better spent on more important matters.

It could be that the disciples misunderstood Jesus' “everyone is welcome” message and His desire to embrace all people, including children. They may have thought that His ministry was primarily for adults or the spiritually mature. Or perhaps they may have tried to protect Jesus from what they perceived as distractions or interruptions in His important work.

Thankfully, Jesus' response to their resistance reveals His love and openness, teaching them that everyone, including children, is valued in the Kingdom of Heaven. This blessed time shows Jesus’ deep compassion for children, welcoming them and desiring to bless families. This reflects His loving nature and concern for all, especially the vulnerable. So, let’s be people of God who go out of our way to reflect God's heart.