August 18

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who then is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus invited a little child to stand among them. — Matt 18:1-2 BSB

When the disciples asked who among them was the greatest, Jesus responded by calling a little child to Him and placing the child in their midst. This child became a lesson for the disciples, and indeed, children often teach great lessons to adults. When a new baby arrives in a home, it becomes a teacher. Parents may think they are the ones teaching their children, but the children are also teaching and shaping their parents.

I learned more about the fatherhood of God and His love for His children in the first week after my own child was born than I had learned from years of studying books and the Bible. Each child’s life is like a book, with new pages unfolding each day.

While children are not angels, they bring many glimpses of heaven to earth. Their presence in a home is a blessing—they soften hearts, shift the focus from self to others, and open the door to love. Children teach patience, gentleness, and thoughtfulness. While a young child is in a home, a “school of heaven” is set up there. It’s a great tragedy for those who miss the chance to learn these blessed lessons.