Childlike Faith

The other day someone wrote on face book that his 4-year old daughter asked him to read the story of the cross from a children’s Bible. Then he led her in a prayer of salvation. Since my granddaughter is about the same age, I wondered about the maturity of her spirituality. I know she loves church and singing in the worship and praise.

As if in answer to my thoughts, my phone rang yesterday and my son said, “Guess what Anne-Marie said to me!” I couldn’t imagine, since we’re constantly amazed at what comes out of her mouth. (Last week when she was visiting here from Houston, she said in their hotel room, “I miss Hooston. It’s the greatest planet on earth!”) Her father went on, “She said, ‘For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.’ ‘Romans 3:23!’”

I read once that one of the signs of a gifted child is an early interest in spiritual matters. Of course, what they are exposed to is an important factor. When God is the center of parents’ lives, it can’t help but rub off on the kids. Jesus said, “Suffer (allow) the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19:14.

Another time, Jesus called a little child to him and told his disciples, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3. He says in verse 10, “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.”

Apparently, their guardian angels hold a place of high importance in Heaven. What does that say about the importance of parents and caretakers of our little ones here on earth? It is true that motherhood (or parenthood) is a high calling, indeed!

The disciples had been asking in verse one about who would be greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus was teaching them to be childlike in simple trust and humble service as the way to greatness in the kingdom. He had harsh words for any who would offend or discourage a child, saying in verse 6 that it would be better for such a one to have a millstone tied around his neck and be drowned in the midst of the sea. Would that child offenders be punished that way today!

Jesus is also referring to childlike believers when he says “little ones.” In verses 11-13, he includes the lost as little ones who have gone astray. He says, “Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish,” Matthew 18:14.

In insuring our children’s salvation, it would seem that “the sooner, the better,” or as soon as understanding permits, should be the rule. That is the greatest gift of all!