One of the most iconic scenes in the Gospels lies in Mark 10 where Jesus is finishing up a sermon on divorce, and children approach. Jesus’s disciples try to turn them away (…sigh…), but Jesus rebukes them and says this:
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (NIV)1
Many have debated the meaning of this scene and statement. Some argue that the appearance of the children emphasizes Jesus’s previously stated distaste for divorce, since the children are the ultimate victims of it. I would agree, though that doesn’t touch on the statement itself.
What is it that makes children special and uniquely suitable for the kingdom of God? Is it their innocence? The theology of original sin would suggest that such innocence doesn’t exist. Is it their naturally obedient nature? Any parent will tell you with 100% certainty that no such thing exists.
A sermon I attended once suggested it was their inquisitive nature. Children are willing to ask “why” and expect a serious answer. This could tie back into questioning the teachings of Moses on divorce and what they were meant to address.
I do like that theory. However, I would expand on it a bit, and suggest that what ultimately defines the nature of kids is what they are NOT afflicted with. Bitterness. Cynicism. Resignation.
Adults like us are extremely vulnerable to these spiritual afflictions. They stop us from questioning our world. They stop us from acting to improve ourselves and our societies. They can mean a surrender to the status quo, no matter how unacceptable it might be.
You can practically hear the voices of these afflictions and how they prey upon the human heart:
- “Nothing’s going to change.”
- “Because it’s always been this way.”
- “Life isn’t fair.”
- “Why bother?”
- “All politicians are corrupt.”
- “That’s just a dream.”
- “Don’t be naive.”
- “Everybody’s out to get you.”
I firmly believe that this triple-affliction of bitterness, cynicism, and resignation is what truly separates kids from a lot of adults. And seriously. If you were God, would you want this kind of attitude in your kingdom? I should think not.
I believe this passage calls on us to reflect on our thoughts and identify when we are experiencing these afflictions. We should keep our sense of wonder, our sense of curiosity, and our ability to dream.
- THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ↩︎