Jesus says, "¹³ And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. ¹⁴ 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. ¹⁵ Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” ¹⁶ And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them." (Mark 10:13-16).

  These words are spoken at every Baptism in the service in order to proclaim that Baptism is not man's work, but God's work. As Luther says in the Large Catechism, "To be baptized in God's Name is to be baptized not by men, but by God Himself." Jesus desires that the little children come to Him, be brought to Him, in order that they may receive life in His Name in the reception of His Word.  There is no distinction of merit in the eyes of the Lord. Unlike the world, Jesus does not look at age, experience, accomplishment, or worth, but rather sees all in need of His mercy. Because of this, Jesus rebukes the disciples and beckons the children be brought to Him. This practice is still done today in the church when children, from 9 minutes old to 99 years old, are brought by the Holy Spirit to receive the life giving waters of Holy Baptism.

To receive the Kingdom of God as a child does not mean that one is naïve, but rather that one relies on and trusts in Jesus completely for their salvation. In other words, when one depends on the grace given to them in their baptism, then they have faith as a little child. They do not present their merits, experiences, reason, or emotions before God the Father, but rather present their Baptism for their worthiness. In Baptism, Jesus takes sinners up in His arms and blesses them with the gifts He purchased and won for them on the cross, the gifts of forgiveness, life, and salvation. May this comfort assure us that we are saved, not by our reason and strength, but rather are taken up into the arms of Jesus in Holy Baptism and blessed forever, Amen.

Jesus' Sheepdog,

Pastor Hull