Sometimes, when I watch my granddaughters playing with each other, I reflect on this saying of Jesus: “the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” In what sense do these two little children belong to His Kingdom? What makes our children unique? What characteristics of children fit the reality that goes beyond this world?

Obviously, it is not their selfishness when they fight for their favorite toy, nor their ability to “sweet-talk” their grandma into buying them ice cream. What marked us as citizens of the Kingdom when we were children? What kind of people/children does God want us to be for His mission in this world?

I believe that one important characteristic of children is their curiosity. They are perfect disciples who continually ask questions about everything around them. They are eager to learn new things and participate in new activities.

Another characteristic is children's ability to start from scratch many times to reach their goal. They learn how to walk and keep trying despite the fact that they have already fallen several times. Nothing stops them from trying again—and again, and again—with the hope that they’ll make it the next time.

In addition, little children are able to love people with an unconditional and undiscriminating love. Their attitude of love does not depend on nationality, race, a bank account, or an IQ.

They accept others, not understanding these differences and considering others as equals.

Children are able to communicate with all human beings, even with those whom society may despise.

What kind of abilities do we need to recover in order to share the gospel with this world? Shall we be ready to learn from God, always loving people despite their circumstances? What is the essential task Jesus set for us in terms of our personal participation in God’s mission as His children?

I believe God wants us to extend our relationship with Him to others who are lost, rejected, or considered insignificant. Our heavenly Father wants us to bring these people to Him, that He may take them in His arms, bless them, heal them, and give them a part in His Kingdom.

Prayer for the week:

Lord Jesus, thank You for the perfect examples and illustrations that you provided for us in Your Word. Thank You for reminding us of what we have lost, and what You have prepared for us. You revealed to us what it means to be the perfect sons and daughters of God. Help us recognize those who are considered insignificant yet deserving of love and acceptance. Help us to see the world with Your eyes and to love people with the undiscriminating love of our Father. Amen.

Olga Druzhinina is a lecturer in theology for European Nazarene College and M-Power volunteer in Riga, Latvia.

Written for devotions with Holiness Today.

Please note: All facts, figures, and titles were accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of original publication but may have since changed.