Let the Children Come to Me

Let the Children Come to Me

From Grace for All by Jim Stovall, Greta Smith, First United Methodist Church, Maryville, TN

April 24, 2026 · 6 min · Season 24 · Episode 889

About this episode

The episode discusses Jesus' message about the importance of children in the kingdom of heaven and reflects on childhood memories associated with faith.

Mark 10:14-16 But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me, do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven." The people brought children to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. The disciples shooed them off. But Jesus was irate and let them know it. "Don't ever get between them and me. These children are at the very center of life in the kingdom. Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in." Then, gathering the children up in his arms, he laid his hands of blessing on them. Every time I listen to these verses, I revisit my childhood. Little Golden Books filled my bookshelves. One book, in particular, had a picture of Jesus, surrounded by children: one little boy comfy on his lap with a lamb also being held. As a child, this picture brought comfort and a sense of love and belonging. Perhaps that is why I remember it so clearly. As an adult, it is still moving. In Biblical days, children held little to no status in the community. They were expected to contribute to the household economy. My understanding is that children were required to complete menial tasks such as agriculture…

People in this episode

Hosts: Jim Stovall, Greta Smith

Topics covered

  • children in faith
  • Jesus' teachings
  • kingdom of heaven
  • childhood memories
  • spirituality
  • religion

Keywords

  • children
  • Jesus
  • kingdom of heaven
  • spirituality
  • religion
  • childhood
  • faith

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: First United Methodist Church

Books & works: Little Golden Books

Places: Maryville, TN

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