The routine Jesus and his disciples followed was demanding, if not rigorous: walking from village to village in the heat, or cold, talking, answering requests for healing, welcoming crowds...it is no wonder that the well-intentioned disciples tried to shield Jesus from the further annoyance of parents' bringing their children for a blessing. Tired or not, Jesus refused to ignore these children, welcomed them, and laid his hands in blessing upon them, reminding the disciples and us, that "the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." (Mt 19: 15). No doubt the exuberance and excitement of these children brought joy to Jesus, lifted his spirits, and energized him.
Once, when I was walking through a field in Rwanda where school children were at recess, they all began to shout "Muzungu!" (white man) as soon as they noticed me, and in droves surrounded me as if I were loaded with cookies or coins. Their joy was genuine and gave me a joy-filled boost.. Children, especially African children, find joy in the slightest things and hold back nothing in displaying their affection. They love to hug legs, pull hair on arms, and rub their hands against facial stubble. These memories make this scene with Jesus and the children very real, and constantly serve as a reminder to me of how much Jesus treasures sponteneity, wonder, and simple joy, qualities that we cannot let disappear from our relationship with him as we grow older if we want to be part of the Kingdom of Heaven. May the child in our heart live forever.
Bro. Rene
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