Luke 18:15 People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. 16 But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 17 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
When I was seven years old we began attending Brookfield A/G. It was a church of 800-1500 depending on the era. The pastor was highly respected in the assemblies and was on the platform at General Council. He was a star in the A/G. But I had no idea that was the case while attending. He was so down to earth and approachable that fringe members of the congregation called his home on Christmas because to them, he was their best friend.
On one of the first Sundays we attended they were serving communion. My folks stopped the pastor in the lobby and asked if there was an age or confirmation requirement to partake as I was only 7. The Pastor turned his attention from them, squatted down, and spoke to me at eye level. He asked me about my relationship with Jesus, and with that confirmation told me that was all that was required to take part in communion.
That one conversation made a huge impact on me and still does. This super-pastor of a huge church literally got down on my level to connect with me. He valued my soul and respected my ability to connect with the Lord in a genuine way.
This is how I imagine Jesus connecting with he little children. He blessed those babies, seeing them as fully formed souls. I think with the older kids he smiled, laughed, and enjoyed their genuine hearts.
Let us never discount the work of God in a young soul. I remember this interaction like it was yesterday.
Andrew's Thoughts 