Let the Little Children Come

Morning Encouragement

Children can interrupt our schedules, challenge our patience, and require constant attention.

Yet when others viewed children as an interruption, Jesus welcomed them.

His response reminds us that children are not obstacles to meaningful ministry. They are people worthy of love, attention, and spiritual care.

Going Deeper: The Word "Suffer"

In Mark 10:14, Jesus said, "Suffer the little children to come unto me."

The Greek word aphiēmi (ἀφίημι), translated "suffer" in the KJV, means to permit, allow, or let go.

Jesus was not telling children to experience suffering. He was commanding His disciples to allow the children to approach Him.

What His Disciples Would Have Understood

In the first-century world, children were loved within their families but generally held little social authority or status.

When people brought children to Jesus, the disciples rebuked them.

Jesus responded with indignation.

He not only welcomed the children but taught that the Kingdom of God must be received with childlike dependence and trust.

The disciples were learning that God's Kingdom does not operate according to human rankings of importance.

Breakfast for the Soul: The time you spend loving, teaching, and praying with a child is never wasted. Jesus values the little ones.

Morning Prayer

Jesus, thank You for loving children and welcoming them into Your presence. Give parents, grandparents, and caregivers patience and wisdom. Help us demonstrate Your love through our words and actions, and teach us to approach You with childlike faith. Amen.

Scripture | Mark 10:13–16 (KJV)

And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.