Life-Giving Kids

This past week we were blessed to serve alongside a diverse group of people during Mission Hometown. My favorite, by far, were the students and kids. When the adults were tired and ready to pack it in at the end of the day, the kids still had energy. 

I cherish the memory of the kids dancing to music in the worship center or playing “Simon Says” at one of the ministry locations. Of course Friday, the area behind the office was filled with kids enjoying the water slide, playground, and games. The excitement from the students and kids was special.

It makes me think of Jesus in the Gospel of Mark. He has just finished teaching a large crowd. He was teaching about divorce and challenging the crowd to shift their thinking. I am sure it was an exhausting message to share. As He finishes scripture says, “People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them.” (Mark 10:13). 

I am sure the disciples were just trying to protect Jesus. He had just finished teaching and I am sure they assumed He would like a rest. Mark 10:14 says, “When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Indignant is a powerful word. It portrays a sense of anger or disdain. We don’t often think of Jesus this way. I think He was passionate and firm because He knew that the children have a way of being life-giving. 

Just like Mission Hometown. You couldn’t help but feel refreshed when you saw the joy the students and kids still had. Their joy was life-giving for us who were fatigued.

Be blessed and be a blessing,
Matt