Whether you are a parent, grandparent, legal guardian, or do not have any children at all, you will indeed interact with children at some point in your life. Sometimes there are tendencies to dismiss the young for one reason or another, but you should know that Jesus most certainly did not!

In Mark 10: 13-16 the disciples rebuked people for trying to bring the children to Jesus so he could lay hands on them and bless them. Jesus had an intense emotional response to the disciples who were forbidding and hindering the children from accessing him. Most translations say Jesus was indignant. The word "indignant" refers to a strong feeling of displeasure, anger, or righteous indignation in response to perceived injustice, unfairness, or wrongdoing. It is a reaction characterized by strong moral or ethical disapproval. One version says he reprimanded them and another says he scolded them. Whatever version you read, it is clear Jesus was not pleased with the disciples.

Jesus said clearly, “’Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.’ And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them."

Wow! Jesus himself gives children full access to all he has! A relationship with Christ is not just for you; it is for your children too. I love how he points out that we need to be more like them. In fact, we will not enter the kingdom of God unless it is with childlike faith. Childlike faith does not imply naivety or immaturity but rather a humble, innocent, and authentic posture of trust and dependence on God. No skepticism or doubt, only trust!

In part of Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2:17 it says, "'And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.'“ Peter is explaining the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that was happening at that moment. He quotes Joel 2:28-32, where it is prophesied that in the last days, God will pour out His Spirit on all people, without distinction of age, gender, or social status.

This highlights the inclusive nature of the Holy Spirit's work, and it is not limited to a particular group or category of people but is available to all. There is no junior Holy Spirit! Engage your children in all the things of God even if you are learning right alongside them! The Word instructs us to do so, and the empowering presence of God will guide them—and you—fulfilling every amazing, wonderful promise and plan God has!