A child to save us, to free us.

Welcome to my Advent Blog. This is the last of the 13 blogs and I encourage you to read them in order. We are exploring ways to rediscover the child-like faith we once had.

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
     --Matthew 18:1-5

Jesus told us to become like children. In fact, he said if we don’t, we won’t enter the kingdom of heaven. What is it about children that are so important for us to emulate? This scripture tells us that they hold a lowly position. To some degree that holds true today but it was even more so back in Jesus' day.

Jesus came to us in this lowly position. As a child, he would lead us. As Jesus grew into His role as savior and king, he would still hold this lowly position mindset. He could have exerted his power and authority over the world whenever he wanted, but he would hold firm to his position as a servant.        

There are very few things we have true control of, yet we act like we can make it all happen. Do you know if your heart will keep pumping tomorrow? Do you know if your family will survive the car ride home? While this all seems pretty scary, it is worth remembering. As you celebrate the joys of Christmas, remember how fragile you are and how little control we have over things that are important. Having a lowly mindset does not make you sad. On the contrary, it sets you free.   

Merry Christmas,
Pastor Dan