Become Like Little Children – A Marathon With A Cross
- August 9, 2024
“At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven? He called a little child to Him, and placed the child among them. And He said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of Heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” Matthew 18:1-5 (NIV)
How can it be possible to become like little children for grown-ups?
We have discussed this before. If you don’t remember it, don’t worry. My job is to remind us so we don’t forget the cross we must pick up.
What are the main character traits most children have?
Children love their parents and seek their approval
Children trust and obey their parents
Children can be disciplined and still respect their parents
Children are humble and gentle
Children have compassion and empathy for their peers
Children have adaptability in all circumstances
Children are content and grateful for little things
Children are pure in heart
I hope you agree that most children have the above qualities and more. If we read our Lord’s Sermon on the Mount, we can find similar character traits:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3-10 (NIV)
Let me share with you what I have seen. I have witnessed grown men repent and journey to become like little children:
They wept when they received grace, love and forgiveness from our Lord Jesus Christ.
They were comforted by our Lord but must pick up their cross daily.
They became humble and walked through the earthly consequences without complaints.
They are hungry for righteousness because they realize how unrighteous they have been and how Holy our Lord is.
They know they must forgive because they have been forgiven.
They make a covenant with their eyes so their hearts can be purified.
They make peace whenever they see conflicts.
The above are all true, and I’m a witness to that. If our Lord could change these men and give them a new heart, He can change you and give you a new heart. You only need to humble yourself and ask. This is all about Him and nothing about us anymore. Being a disciple is all about the Maestro. When you realize that and walk like that, you will become like little children again, with peace and joy.
This is a marathon, not a sprint. A marathon with a cross.
Becomelects Ministry