Monday 4th August Matthew 19.13-22

Qn. 1

But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven” (14): In Jewish custom, the children could be presented to God by their parents according to the Laws of Moses. For the male child, they could ceremonially dedicate him to God (1 Sam. 1.21-22). Possibly the disciples who were hindering the children could have realized that some Jewish customs had not been adhered to as required. The commentators assert that the children whom Jesus calls to come to him must be those who are old enough to make a personal decision to follow him without being forced by anyone else. Jesus does not only care about the children, but also about everyone at all levels. When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions (22): Could be that this young man loved wealth more than he loves God, and also he proved to be loving himself more than he could love other people (21-22). James made it clear that love for earthly things prevent people from loving God (James 4.4). Consider: Following the way of salvation wholeheartedly requires us to be led by Christ in all ways.