As A Little Child Would

Mark 10:13-16, 17-22

"Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, 'Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them (who brought them); for of such is the kingdom of God.  Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not RECEIVE the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means ENTER it.' "

I received the kingdom of God as a grown man, 30 years of age. Does that disqualify me? I think the Master is teaching all those who would be His disciples to approach Him as a child would: full of inquisition and much room to grow.

"Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, 'Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? So Jesus said to him, 'Why do you call me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. You know the commandments: Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and your mother.' And he answered and said to Him, 'Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.' Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, 'One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, TAKE UP THE CROSS AND FOLLOW ME.'  But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions."

Jesus was telling him the same thing he tells us: "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you". (Matthew 6:33) The one that came running to Jesus, although approaching, did not RECEIVE His words as a little child. He was too full of what he had to joyfully ENTER his rest.