Easter Devotion: Jesus Welcomes Children (Day 1)

People brought babies to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. When the disciples saw it, they shooed them off. Jesus called them back. "Let these children alone. Don't get between them and me. These children are the kingdom's pride and joy. Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in."  Luke 18:15-17

Begin the Lenten devotions by asking your child(ren) what Easter means to them, beginning with your youngest child. Each child can then add to what the child before them said. This will give you a good idea of their current understanding of Easter.

Explain that for the next six weeks until Easter, your family will be spending a few minutes every day talking about Jesus and what Easter means.

Begin by reading Luke 18:15-17: People were also bringing babies to Jesus to have him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them.
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.
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

You can ask the following questions:

 - Why did the disciples rebuke (scold) the parents who were bringing their children to see Jesus?

 - Do you ever feel, as a child, that adults don't have time for you and that you aren't as important as other adults?

 - If you do feel that way sometimes, do you know that Jesus understood how children feel? Remember, He too was a child. He never wanted children around Him to feel that way and so He made sure that His disciples let all the children come to Him.

- Then, Jesus said a wonderful thing..."the kingdom of God belongs to children." What do you think He meant by that?

- Jesus wanted the children to know that they were just as special to Him as the adults.

- He said one more thing: no one will enter the kingdom of God unless they enter like a little child. What do you think that meant?

- Do you know that children believe easily in Jesus and they trust Him. Jesus wanted the adults to believe easily in Him and trust Him just like children.

- Are there any other thoughts or questions?

Say a prayer with your children thanking Jesus that He notices and loves children.

Sing "Jesus loves the little children"

Easter resources:

Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard

Stories Behind the Traditions and Songs of Easter by Ace Collins