Reflecting on Innocence
Jesus said, "unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven."
" He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. "Matthew 18:2-5 NIV
My aunt sent me a picture of myself as a little child. It made me reflect on the purity and innocence of that time when I was unblemished and free from the trauma that awaited me.
It made me think about Jesus and his interaction with children. While Jesus and his disciples were out doing ministry, the disciples came to Jesus and asked him who was the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Jesus replied, "Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven."
This was a profound statement and a clear message about the qualities and mindset required to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
When I was a child, I relied completely on my caregivers and I was free from the troubles of life. While King David expressed that he was born into sin and shaped by iniquity, and many of us subscribe to that belief, I personally think that there is something inherently pure about children. I believe Jesus is trying to show us that children embody several important characteristics; here are a few:
1. Teachability: Children possess little knowledge until they are taught.
2. Dependence: Children require a caretaker as they are unable to care for themselves.
3. Curiosity: Children are constantly seeking to understand the world around them.
4. Vulnerability: Children openly express their emotions, whether it be through crying or smiling.
5. Innocence: Children are often considered innocent due to their limited exposure to evil, as they lack knowledge of wrongdoing.
With these inherited traits in mind, the question is, how can an adult regain childlike innocence and be cleansed from endured pain and suffering?
The answer is salvation. We are reborn through our confession and acceptance of Jesus Christ—a spiritual rebirth. Salvation brings forgiveness of sin, healing, and wholeness. We enter a new journey with Jesus Christ and are to be like children. Jesus and the Holy Spirit support us like children needing a parent. The Holy Spirit accompanies us on our journey.
Reflecting on returning to a childlike state, I've had to undergo healing and restoration. This involved therapy, prayer, seeking support from my community, and studying the Bible to gain clarity and understanding of God and my identity in Jesus Christ. While I haven't fully mastered the art of being childlike, it's a goal of mine.
As we strive to humble ourselves, Jesus teaches us that we can experience the Kingdom of Heaven. He wants us to depend entirely on Him to reach this state. I am reminded of the old saying, "Once an adult, twice a child." Of course, this doesn't mean neglecting responsibility. It refers to our mindset and understanding of what motivates us to be responsible. The words of Jesus are truly inspiring to me.