“If You Don't Become Like Children, You Will Not Enter the Kingdom of Heaven” How do we become like children?
Truly I tell you, if you do not turn around and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives a child like this in my name receives me “. Matthew 18: 3-5
How do we become as children? What is the definition of being childish? Here are some synonyms that most likely apply to Jesus' definition of becoming like children: confident, dependent, natural, spontaneous, fearful, airless, and innocent. Perhaps some of these, or all of them, would be qualified for what Jesus is talking about. Let's take a look at some of these qualities about our relationship with God and with others.
Trust: Children trust their parents with no questions asked. They may not always want to obey, but there are very few reasons why children don't trust that a parent will provide and take care of them. Food and clothing are presumed and not even considered a concern. If they are in a big city or mall, there is safety in being close to a parent. This trust helps eliminate fear and worry.
Natural: children are often free to be who they are. They don't care too much about looking silly or embarrassed. Often they will naturally and spontaneously be who they are and will not care about the opinions of others.
Innocent: Children are not yet distorted or cynical. They don't look at others and assume the worst. Rather, they will often see others as good.
Inspired by awe: Children are often fascinated by new things. They see a lake, or a mountain, or a new toy and are amazed by this first meeting.
All of these qualities can easily be applied to our relationship with God. We need to trust that God will take care of us in everything. We must strive to be natural and free, expressing our love without fear, without worrying whether it will be accepted or rejected. We must strive to be innocent in the way we see others who do not give in to prejudice and prejudice. We must strive to continually be in awe of God and all the new things He does in our life.
Reflect today on any of these qualities in which you find yourself most lacking. How does God want you to become more like a child? How does He want you to become like children so that you can become truly great in the Kingdom of Heaven?
Lord, help me become a child. Help me find true greatness in a child's humility and simplicity. Above all, I can have absolute trust in You in all things. Jesus, I trust You.