An Almost Missed Blessing

Please read Mark 10:13-16

Anytime we see Jesus upset in the Bible I think that it’s probably wise to ask why.
Jesus says in chapter 9 verse 37, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.” Now here are the disciples, just a few verses later, not welcoming the children.

I can relate to the disciples here. How many times have I had good intentions but gotten it wrong…over and over again? These followers of Jesus thought they were protecting him, or helping him somehow by not allowing these kids to get in his way or distract him. Yet, the distraction of these little children was too important and Jesus couldn’t help but take these little ones into his arms and bless them.

These disciples were about to get in the way of a blessing from Jesus to little children; all because they thought they were helping.

Do I try and help too much? How often do I get in the way of the Lord’s blessing?

The disciples could have avoided Jesus’ indignation had they remembered their teacher’s words a little while before in chapter 9, but also if they had paid more attention to the heart of their Lord instead of what they thought their job was. Then maybe they would have come closer to getting it right.

Today, will I pay more attention to the heart of our Savior than what I think my work for the Savior is? I want to remember His teachings and His heart so my work will not be hindered by me.

Steve Vollmer