A Serving Leadership Insight from the Life of Jesus Christ (Mark 10:13-16)

“People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’ And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” (Mark 10:13-16)

In Mark 10:13–16 Jesus took young children in his arms to bless them, despite resistance from his disciples. Apparently, they felt like he had more important matters to attend to or that children had little strategic value in his kingdom. Jesus felt otherwise. “Let the little children come to me,” he instructed, “and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” For Jesus, children exemplified the characteristics of dependence and receptivity necessary for those in his kingdom. Their simplicity and trust made them excellent candidates for discipleship. Considering the discussion on divorce and remarriage just prior to this, perhaps Jesus also was sharing his compassion for those who are the greatest victims of a marital breakup. Serving leaders value children and bless them.

KEY QUESTIONS: Who are the children in my sphere of influence that need more time and attention from me? How does my independence and/or arrogance get me into trouble? In what way do I need to be more childlike? Who needs me to bless them today and show compassion?