Humble as a Child

October 2011 Newsletter Article

Jesus tells the disciples after they asked “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus called a child and stated, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:2-3). Well having a child and knowing many, I am very happy that Jesus does not stop with simply that statement, because there are a lot of things about children that I am happy I have out grown and that most adults have as well.

Jesus continues by saying one should become humble like a child. Often that is explained saying we should be as innocent as children. I can tell you that children are not always innocent (babies perhaps). We have to help them learn to share and be part of the group. That is actually the point. To be able to learn is what humility means here. Jesus wants us to continue to learn about God’s ways. We do not simply follow a bunch of legalistic rules; rather we are in a humble relationship with Jesus that teaches us constantly about God’s rightness.

That is a great lesson in itself, that we should be humble students, yet Jesus adds, “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” (v. 5) Jesus desires us to remember hospitality is of foremost importance. In the beginning of the school year it is obvious that not every child in the classroom is equal on every subject, yet the teacher and especially the children welcome each other into the class. We all try to come humbly to church working on our relationship with Jesus, and we find ourselves working on different things. In worship when we shake each other’s hands and share some hugs, we are attempting to live up to this welcome of each other. It is wonderful part of our worship service and when we go out into the world let us welcome people by being children of God.

This reminds me of the prophet Micah’s words:

He has told you, O mortal, what is good;

and what does the Lord require of you

but to do justice, and to love kindness,

and to walk humbly with your God? (6:8)