Humility

Jesus said we are to "... change and become like little children..." (Matthew 18:3). As Brianna illustrated so well for us this morning, little children are not valued for their productivity or usefulness. They are in fact, endless consumers rather than contributors! In spite of this we parents continue to feed, clothe, and provide for all their needs. When Brianna's daddy was asked why they do all these things for her, he replied, "Because we love her so much." Well said.

When Jesus told us to become like little children he certainly didn't mean that we were to become childISH. (Although the way some Christians behave might lead one to think that.) He was likewise not telling us to be cute, cuddly, lovable, etc... He was not thinking about any child-like quality that one would normally desire. He was, in fact, pointing out that a child is "worthless", at least in terms of productivity.

The kingdom of God turns everything upside down. The most valuable are the one's who don't realize that they are the most valuable. They are in fact the humble. The one's who realize their great need for God. Like obedient children looking to their parents, these humble ones believe God knows best and that God is going to take care of them. They don't look down on others because they haven't put themselves on a pedestal. And when they look into the eyes of the even the least deserving, they see the eyes of an approving Jesus looking back at them. "Whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me" (Matthew 18:5).

Prayer and Humility

For those who would like more information concerning Ruby Bridges I have three recommendations. The movie, "Ruby Bridges" is an accurate portrayal of the events that I described in the sermon. It appears to be largely based on the information found in the children's book, The Story of Ruby Bridges, by child psychiatrist, Robert Coles. The book is wonderfully illustrated and would be acceptable to read even to young elementary children. Ruby tells the story in her own words in the book, Through My Eyes. Although still found in the children's section, the book contains pictures of the events it describes and would be better for older elementary school children. All of these can be obtained from the Freeman Public Library.


Finally, here is the picture that I showed this morning that caused such deep reflection in my own soul. Look carefully and see if you can see yourself in this crowd. God have mercy on me, a sinner.
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Ruby Bridges
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