Morning Devotional 121325 Through the Eyes of a Child

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

December 13, 2025 

Matthew 18:1-5

1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2 Then he called a little child over to sit among the disciples, 3 and said, “I assure you that if you don’t turn your lives around and become like this little child, you will definitely not enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Those who humble themselves like this little child will be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

Good Morning! We are made in God’s image!

 . . . and a child shall lead us! 

When we are children, we have a desire to grow up so that we can do all the things we see grown-ups do. We want the freedom to make our own decisions and do our own things. 

When we are grown-ups, we have times when we wish for the ability to reclaim our childhood when we don’t have to be the one making decisions, going to work, paying the bills, and all the things. 

One summer on a family trip to Disney World, I saw lots of shirts proclaiming this message. “I’m done adulting, let’s go to Disney.” 

As much as the idea of being a child again calls to us in our moments of chaos, do we really want to go back to a time when others dictated our lives and set the rules of operation? 

Why does Jesus call us to become like a little child? Children don’t have the preconceived notions and cynicism that we develop as adults. They don’t view others through a lens of prejudice unless an adult teaches them to. On a playground filled with children, they see the opportunity to make friends, while adults see playing with strangers as risky.  

How many thoughts or questions go through your mind when you enter a room or space filled with strangers as you try to ascertain to whom you will speak? Children expect love; adults expect danger and disappointment. 

On this beautiful day, give yourself the grace to look at the possibilities that come when you view the world through the eyes of a child. 

Lord, you bless us abundantly! We are in such a hurry to grow up and take charge. Help us let go of our desire to be in charge. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: Look at the world through the lens of love.

Embrace your inner child! Pastor Liz