They Came Running

We got up early to make the drive to the game. We were a little unsure of where the game would be played, as we had never been there before. We got some directions and found our way.

Walking up we saw some familiar faces. They did not see us at first. When they did they came running. You see, we were not at one of our son's football games. We were watching two little girls play volleyball from our church. We had been trying to make it happen for weeks and the schedules never worked out. They finally did today.

Mom and Dad did not see us. One of their girls did and she came running to hug us. Soon big sister came running to get her hug followed by their youngest sister. they seemed so excited to see us and were equally excited to see them. I wish I could tell you how that made us feel. We received and gave several hugs before the day ended.

Jesus made time for children. They were and still are important to Him. If Jesus loves the children,  so should we. They should be a priority. they should not be looked at as a nuisance. They should be looked at as a blessing. I have served in churches without children. It is a sad sight. I love the sight and sound of children running around.

What breaks my heart is how many children are growing up in terrible environments. They are treated harshly, introduced to wicked things that will warp the way they the world and other people. They are often belittled, criticized incessantly and neglected. Hurt children grow up to hurt other people. The cycle repeats itself unless Jesus intervenes. Jesus changes everything for a child.

Matthew 19:13-15 (NKJV)
13  Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them.
14  But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven."
15  And He laid His hands on them and departed from there.

Jesus was not too important or too busy to make time for children. He loved them. He touched them. He listened to them. He still does. We ought to do the same. Let the children keep running toward us. May our arms be open wide.