Jesus is traveling to Jerusalem to die.  As he is traveling, he takes every opportunity to prepare the disciples for what will happen.  His discussion concerns living a radical life.  Stopping, he takes a child and sits this child in his lap..  “whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” 

 

Now many scholars and theologians will give this long dissertation concerning the attributes of a child.  Yet, in the context of Jesus calling His disciples to a radical discipleship, this takes on a deeper meaning.  Jesus is challenging his disciples to surrender everything and totally rely upon the Father for everything.  As a child does not worry about life and its “needs,” the disciples must be just the same.

 

How about you?  Do you totally rely upon Jesus for everything or do your hedge your corners?  A child looks to their parents for all, so must followers of Jesus rely upon Jesus for all.