Luke 18:13-14 - And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God."

This Bible reading tells the story of when Jesus was surrounded by children and the disciples tried to turn them away. The passage from Luke 18:13-14 describes how people were bringing children to Jesus so that he might touch them and bless them. However, the disciples saw this and rebuked the parents for bothering Jesus. When Jesus saw what was happening, he was indignant and told the disciples to let the children come to him and not to hinder them. Jesus said that the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like children.

This story shows us something very important about the nature and character of Jesus. While the disciples saw the children as a nuisance and something getting in the way, Jesus had nothing but love and care for them. He wanted to bless the children and welcomed them with open arms. Jesus knew that children have an innate innocence and trust that adults often lose. Children receive things simply because of God's love and grace, not because they have done anything to earn or deserve it. This is how we all must come to God - as little children, trusting fully in His love and provision for us. We cannot earn our way into God's kingdom through our own works or merits. We must humbly receive God's blessings as these children received Jesus' touch. Jesus also used the children as an example for us, saying that the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like children - humble, trusting, and lacking in self-righteousness. May we all come to God with childlike faith each day, finding refuge in His never-ending love.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Jesus and how He loved and welcomed the little children. Help us to have faith like a child - simple, trusting, and lacking in pride. May we receive Your blessings each day as gifts of Your grace, not because of anything we have done to deserve them. Transform our hearts to be more like children in Your sight - humble, innocent, and fully dependent on You. Help us to see others as You see them, with compassion. May Your kingdom be made known through the way we love and welcome all people, young and old alike. We pray these things in Jesus' name. Amen.