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How many times have you heard the story of Jesus’ welcoming of the children? Have you heard it so many times that you don’t really think about it any more? That’s kind of how I am.

But if you really stop to consider this brief incident in Jesus' life, the implications are huge! It’s huge because it’s not just that Jesus stopped His adult conversation to take time for some children, or that He actually physically picked up the children and prayed for them. Think about this:

As adults, we’re always looking to the future. We give in to the pressure of pushing little ones hurriedly through the present so they can reach their more significant future. We say, “Children are valuable because they are the future leaders of the church and the world.” Or, “Our children’s ministry is important because if we can reach kids for Jesus, we can reach their parents, too!” And it's true. Those things are valid reasons for quality children’s ministry.

But you know what? Children are more than people waiting for some future date of real meaning. And that’s what this familiar story helps us learn. Jesus saw something in childhood besides the future. He saw the worth and value in being a child. Jesus welcomed children so that all would know that children are important for what they are right now. Childhood is not a disease to be cured or endured. It's a super cool, God-ordained part of human life!

So take time this week to look with Jesus’ eyes at the children in your lives, and the children you teach. Accept them as they are, not as you wish they were. Be understanding of what these special years are all about. Make sure your classroom, the activities you plan, and the words you say wholeheartedly welcome each young child—just as Jesus did!