As An Infant

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Scripture

Luke 18:15   People were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it.  16 But Jesus called for them and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.  17 Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.”

Observation

Luke is the only gospel writer that refers to the children as infants and it is in this place that we must find ourselves. I think it may be easier to try and put ourselves in the place of children because they are already at a level of independence. Infants on the other hand, are completely and totally dependent upon their parents. Luke’s emphasis here is on the need for complete and total dependence upon God when one is living and serving in the kingdom.

Application

I remember with great joy the day that we brought our first-born, Christy, home from the hospital. It’s amazing how that little person was able to change our lives. Everything about life had to revolve around caring for her if we wanted her to grow up and be healthy. She had to be fed at regular intervals. She had to be changed when the diapers were wet or dirty. But beyond the physical care, we wanted to sing to her, read books to her, pray with her, play with her, hug her and just generally love on her. She didn’t resist any of it and as she began to grow and develop, her response to us gave us great joy. That first little smile was amazing. The first words came quickly and were followed by many, many more. The voracious hunger for books started from an early age and just snuggling with her on the couch was such fun!

Here's Christy a little older, helping her daddy with the newer infant -- Cara!


Our heavenly father is providing everything we need to be healthy. He loves us and just wants to snuggle on the couch with us! He rejoices in our smiles and laughter and spiritual growth and maturity.

We are to be as an infant, completely dependent upon the sustaining strength and leading of the Holy Spirit in our lives. This is God’s desire, not just children, but babes in his arms, looking upward, cooing and smiling at the loving face of the father. He will provide all that we need, if only we relax in his loving arms.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for what you do for us — which is more than enough.  Amen.

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