“Children should find protection in our strength and an example of faith in our humility.” — Alma Ohene-Opare
Commentary:
When the disciples tried to keep children from Jesus, they misunderstood what mattered to Him. They saw an interruption. The Savior saw souls worthy of His time, attention, and blessing. His command to let the children come was also a command to the adults standing in their way. We should consider whether our impatience, priorities, or conduct make it harder for children to experience His love. A child should never have to compete with our screens, ambitions, or convenience to receive the care God has entrusted us to provide.
Protecting children is a sacred stewardship. Their dependence places a responsibility upon those with greater strength, knowledge, and authority. We must guard them against abuse, exploitation, neglect, and influences that treat their innocence as something disposable. That protection includes listening when they speak, taking their fears seriously, and teaching them that they can tell the truth even when someone powerful tells them to remain silent. Like a gardener tending a young tree, we provide both shelter and room to grow. We teach moral truth, establish loving boundaries, and help them develop the judgment to exercise their agency wisely. Our homes and churches should be places where children are safe, heard, and loved.
Yet Jesus also asks us to learn from those we are called to protect. Becoming childlike means recovering humility, teachability, and a willingness to trust our Heavenly Father. A child can reach for a parent’s hand without first understanding the entire road ahead. We can approach God with that same willingness while continuing to seek understanding. Maturity should deepen our faith and compassion. It should never make us too proud to repent, too busy to notice someone small, or too hardened to receive love. When we protect children and humble ourselves before God, we become more like the Savior who welcomed them.
Scripture:
“But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 19:14
Daily Application:
Give a child in your care ten uninterrupted minutes today. Listen without dismissing their feelings, remind them they can bring you difficult things, and express your love for them and for Jesus Christ.