Jesus Welcomes the Children

Parents brought their children to Jesus. They wanted him to bless them and pray for them.

The families came closer together.

But some disciples thought Jesus was too busy. They tried to send the people away.

Jesus saw what was happening and was displeased. The children were not a bother to him.

He told his disciples to let the children come and not stop them. God's kingdom belonged to people like these little ones.

“Let the children come to me.”

Jesus took the children in his arms.

He placed his hands on them and blessed them. Each child could receive his care without becoming older, richer, or more important first.

Jesus also taught that people must receive God's kingdom with a child's trust.

The parents had come hoping for a blessing. They found that Jesus welcomed their children gladly.

Sometimes grown-ups are busy, but children still deserve to be heard and treated gently. We can speak to a trusted adult when we need help.

We can follow Jesus by welcoming younger children, listening to them, and making room in our games.

His love includes the smallest people in the crowd.