E-votional –  Child in Me
February 12, 2001
Verse:
Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of Heaven." 

-- Matthew  18:3
http://bible.gospelcom.net/bible?Matthew+18:1-9
 
Thought:
Jesus was being asked about who is the greatest in the Kingdom, as if there was a type of hierarchy among those who had already gone to heaven.  Just think, levels of accomplishment in Heaven, how ludicrous.  Well, Jesus response was easy, timely and well powerfully true.
Hear the Good News, the route to the Kingdom of Heaven is by way of faith, trust, and innocence.  These are the characteristics of a child.  Contrasting these to the regular characteristics of grown men and women, skepticism, doubt and hang-ups, it seems as though the road may be a difficult way to go.  Yet through Christ, the way of faith and humility is wonderful.  So unclench your fists and walk with open palms.  Smile as you see people and say hello.  Play in the rain and know that the rain is wonderful.
 
Prayer:
Lord, I do get hung-up on things I need not get hung-up on.  I wonder, if only I can do more, it will increase my position.  How foolish I have become in my old age.  Take me to the place where if someone told me there was a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, I would look for it.  Thank You for helping me find my misplaced innocence and for enjoying life like I once did.  I thank You for the people in my life who embody a childlike faith and teach me every day.  Help me to share this with another.  Thank You for all You have done in my life, and all You will continue to do, through Christ our Lord I pray.  Amen.