Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” Mt. 19:14.
Awhile back an acquaintance gave me a really nice present. It was something I wanted and eventually might have purchased for myself. But before I began enjoying this gift, all I could think of was, “What can I buy him in return?”
Adults are strange. We have difficulty just saying, “Thank you!” and leaving it at that. It is ingrained in us that there is no such thing as a free lunch or gift. We don’t like to be in another’s debt, and so we feel that we have to pay back this kindness.
Children aren’t this way. As Jesus points out, they can receive a present and go their merry way. They enjoy the gift and play with it so enthusiastically that it makes the giver feel good.”Wow! I wish everyone got so much good out of my gifts!”
We have been given through Jesus a way of life, abundant life. To accept this gift with a “Thank you!” and to experience it as best we can daily is the fitting response.
Prayer: Gracious God, we praise you for giving us in Jesus Christ what we need to live life fully. There is no way we can pay you back for this gift. We can only enjoy it, which is your intent. Amen
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