Coloring Books, Crayons and Jesus

My life has really been dedicated to children. I had a baby sister that is ten years younger than me that I actually thought was my real life doll baby. I took her with me everywhere I went and loved taking care of her.

I also babysat in my teens, and knew when I was in eighth grade I wanted to be a teacher/missionary. Which is funny in retrospect because even though I never made it to Zimbabwe, I believe that I was a “missionary” of sorts, as are many teachers.

I worked with four year olds in Bible School and Sunday School for years. I went on to college to study education and taught in a public school as soon as I graduated. After having our two sons I homeschooled them for ten years. So I taught for over 25 years in some capacity. This is probably the first time in my life that young children have not been a part of it.

And it is where I find my heart being led to of late. Children and Jesus.

I think we all need to have a coloring book and crayons next to our Bible. Too often as I go to pray or study I feel like I need to articulate things a certain way, or spend more time in the Bible. I sometimes overthink things.

Children are innocent, honest, forthcoming, and simple. They can be aggravating and at the same time turn around and love with the most unconditional love. Spending a couple of afternoons with four and five year olds can be quite enlightening.

Jesus seemed to make it quite clear how he felt about the children. And he let the disciples know that they needed to think like the little ones on more than one occasion.

“Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” Mark 10:15

“And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, ‘Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’” Matthew 18:2-4

Should we think like a child and have a pure, unassuming, and humble faith? Could it be that easy?

I think so. We can sometimes complicate our faith.

I think I will pick up a crayon and coloring book in the morning.

IN CHRIST ALONE