Week 42 · New Testament · about 3 minutes · 162 words
🧒 Let the Children Come
Jesus is indignant when children are turned away, and he blesses them in his arms.
People were bringing little children to Jesus so he could place his hands on them and bless them. The disciples rebuked the parents. Maybe they thought Jesus was too busy or too important for small people with sticky fingers.
Jesus was indignant. That means the dismissal made him rightly upset. “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Anyone who will not receive the kingdom like a little child will never enter it.”
He took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them, and blessed them. The kingdom is not a club for people who have impressive speeches. It is received with trust, the way a child receives a gift.
You are not in the way. Jesus wants you near. Grown-ups who love him should make the path to him clear, never blocked. Tonight you can come close, just as you are, and receive his blessing.
“But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation, and said to them, “Allow the little children to come to me! Don’t forbid them, for God’s Kingdom belongs to such as these.””
Mark 10:14 · Mark 10:13–16
Say it
Practice Mark 10:14
Tap the words in order. The blanks follow the verse from left to right.
ButwhenJesussawit,hewasmovedwithindignation,andtothem,“Allowthelittlechildrentocometome!Don’tforbidforKingdombelongstosuchasthese.”
Talk about it
- Why were the disciples wrong?
- What did Jesus do with the children?
- How can you come to Jesus like a child?
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for wanting children close. I come to you. Please bless me and help me trust you. Amen.
Parent tip
Put a hand gently on your child’s head as you pray a short blessing in Jesus’ name.
Week 42 · the whole night
🧒 Let the Children Come
Story, coloring page, word search, and the verse to trace.