Unlocking the Secrets of Childlike Faith: Analysing Mark 10:13-16

Summary

Uncover profound wisdom in embracing childlike faith through our lessons from Mark 10:13-16.

Introduction

When I was a child, every evening when I went to bed, my parents would encourage me to kneel beside the side of my bed, and sing:

Gentle Jesus, meek and mild, Look upon a little child, Pity my simplicity, Suffer me to come to thee.

Charles Wesley (1707-1788) Used By Permission. CCL Licence No. 135015 Copied from The Song Book of The Salvation Army Song Number 583

A childlike faith indeed! But I like to think it stood me in good stead. Our passage this week allows us to explore the profound theme of learning to believe in Jesus with a childlike, trusting faith, even when we come to adulthood, and perhaps no longer kneel at the side of our bed and sing our prayers before we go to sleep.

Jesus Loved Being Interrupted by Those With Childlike Faith

In this passage, people brought their children to Jesus, seeking his blessings. The disciples, however, initially considered them an interruption. But Jesus, in his infinite wisdom and compassion, welcomed the children, saying, "Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children."

Having Childlike Faith

This moment offers us a glimpse into the kind of faith Jesus encourages us to have – a faith like that of a child. Children often possess a trusting and innocent faith, unburdened by doubt or cynicism. They approach life with wide-eyed wonder, embracing the unknown with open hearts.

Childlike faith involves letting go of our adult scepticism and approaching our relationship with Jesus with the innocence and trust of a child. It means believing without always needing to see, and trusting even when circumstances seem uncertain.

The Simplicity and Trust of a Child

As you go about your day, consider how you can infuse your life with this childlike faith. Approach your relationship with Jesus with the simplicity and trust of a child, and you'll find a deeper sense of peace, hope, and joy.

Remember, it's okay to have questions and uncertainties, but embracing childlike faith means acknowledging them and choosing to trust in Jesus anyway. In doing so, we open ourselves to the abundant blessings and transformative power of his love.

So, how can you embrace a childlike faith in your walk with Jesus today?

Reflection Question

How can you cultivate and nurture a childlike faith in your relationship with Jesus? Are there doubts, worries, or burdens that you can lay aside to trust him more fully?

Photo by Natalya Zaritskaya on Unsplash

Battle Drill Daily Devotional Podcast This Week

This week on the Battle Drill Daily Devotional Podcast we witness Jesus welcoming the interruption of children, and encouraging us to have childlike faith. Each weekday we share hope and encouragement as we read and study the Bible together.

• Monday 6 November - How did Jesus treat people who