When his disciples asked Jesus who was the greatest, he brought a child into their midst and said, “I assure you that if you don’t turn your lives around and become like this little child, you will definitely not enter the kingdom of heaven. Those who humble themselves like this little child will be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me” (Matthew 18:3-5).
What does it mean to become as a child? For Jesus, it is all about trust. As adults, we learn ways to manage our lives, to control our lives, to remain in charge. Just being able to control my life is a sign of greatness. But children don’t control anything. They are vulnerable. They are open. They are teachable. They yearn to love and be loved and offer themselves freely into the delight of play and the joy of simply living. What gives them this freedom? Trust that someone is watching out for them.
This week, I invite you to have a conversation with a child. If you don’t have a child or grandchild handy, be sure to to talk with a parent before opening a conversation with their child. Invite them to join you in it. Ask about the child’s interests, get a sense of their wonder and imagination. Enter their world and imagine your world anew through their eyes. Write about your experience in the comments below!