March 21

Christ’s Banner Over Me

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Luke 18:16).

Scripture: Luke 18:15-17

Song: “His Banner Over Me Is Love”

I was making a banner for my church in a mosaic, stained-glass style that would depict Jesus with each arm around a child. They were looking up to Jesus in wonder. But I was stuck wondering, What colors for the children’s clothes?

I stepped back and the scene came alive as I pictured the children as my grandchildren. Of course! A rose-colored fabric for the taller, blue for the smaller.

When complete, my little granddaughter recognized herself and her brother, explaining to him while pointing, “This one is you and this one is me.” Perceiving Jesus with His loving arms around my grandchildren helped me feel the warmth and depth of His love for these two little darlings in my life.

Jesus puts His arms of love around all “children,” no matter how old, who will come to Him in faith and trust in Him, like a child. This tender event shows all of us how we can enter God’s kingdom—come to Jesus in the trust and humility of a child. Feel His loving arms around us. This can be hard if we let our adult minds get wrapped up in worldly thinking. Childlike faith comes more easily when we put aside our arrogance and pride.

Lord, please help me release my self-confidence as I come to You today like a child and feel the warmth of your love and blessing. In Your name I pray, amen.