Child-like Faith

“But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”—-Luke 18:16-17

My son recently celebrated his eighteenth birthday.

This huge milestone (at least in the parent’s mind) came and went with balloons, gifts,  and a dinner at a special restaurant. As we shared a wonderful meal together and talked throughout the day, it became evident that although turning eighteen signified the end of childhood and entry into adulthood, my son still wanted to be like a kid.

Some kids are ready to jump into being an adult. They wish for it, wait for it, count the days until they are eighteen. Others, like my son, enjoy childhood and growing up, and don’t feel quite ready to jump into the responsibilities and challenges of being an adult. They may see the freedoms of adulthood (doing what you want, when you want, no parents telling you what to do, etc…) but also recognize that yes, your freedoms may also be limited by jobs, responsibilities, careers, families, etc…

We all know adults that act like children at times (and not in a good way). We also know adults who try to keep that child-like attitude of being young-at-heart—trying new things, open to discovery, enjoying life, exploring, etc… I think that is awesome, and hope I can be like that.

I think that attitude is what Jesus is referring to in the text above. He deeply values children and wants us to approach Him with a child-like faith—– an innocent humble faith that explores, doesn’t doubt, is enthusiastic, just jumps in with joy, reaches out without barriers. A faith that follows Him. A faith full of  wonderment. A faith that looks up at Him with shining eyes and says, “What are we going to do now?”

No matter our number of birthday candles this year, let’s commit to having faith that is “Young-At-Heart”. A child-like faith. A humble and joyful faith. Where will you explore and wonder and jump in with your faith this week?

Prayer—“Gracious God, I pray to come to you in child-like faith this week. Help me have the courage to explore, wonder, and follow you without barriers. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.”