Lesson of Love

Little children were brought for Jesus to lay his hands on them and pray. But the disciples scolded those who brought them. "Don't bother him," they said.

But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and don't prevent them. For of such is the Kingdom of Heaven." And he put his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left.

Matthew 19:13-15 (TLB)

Sandra R. dos Santos, from Montevideo, Uruguay, teaches a series of classes designed to help children learn how Jesus' interactions with people transformed them. Toward the end of the semester, they schedule a class visit to a residential community center for adults. Ahead of time, they hold special sessions with the children to prepare them for the visit. Prior to one such visit, Sandra noticed a few children who showed no interest at all. She felt sad thinking their visit might not go well.

On the day of their visit to the center, Sandra was greatly surprised to find the children enthusiastic. They had on their best clothes, had brought homemade snacks prepared especially for the occasion, and were ready to show off their musical talents. Once the children were at the center, their eyes were wide with expectation. They shared smiles, games, laughter, and hugs.

Later, when they evaluated the visit, everyone had something positive to share. There is no doubt that the shared experience at the center was the work of the Lord. On that visit, Sandra and her students learned that the love of God is boundless and that the Holy Spirit surprises us at every turn.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your infinite love. Please hold especially close to you those who feel unloved or forgotten, in Jesus' name. Amen.