Vern stood still and watched as the short humans played all around him. Their quick moves and rolling on the floor was different from the taller humans he was accustomed to. He seemed to enjoy this version of humans and particularly liked it when they would include him in the wrestling around game.
Vern wondered why they were so different. His regular humans appeared stiff and wouldn’t run and roll around like the smaller version. They didn’t care about exploring under tables and inside closets and weren’t as much fun to be around. The smaller sized humans seemed more curious about life and were constantly asking questions.
In the days of Jesus, children were not valued as they are today. They were considered a nuisance and were discouraged from asking questions or interrupting their parents. But Jesus looked at them in a totally different way. “But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” (Luke 18:16)
Jesus knew that children were inquisitive and hadn’t been tainted by the world like their grown up counterparts. He also knew they had eyes of faith that could actually understand the kingdom of God. Even today, if we are lucky enough to have contact with these little people, we should observe them carefully.
As for Vern, he has enjoyed the never ending movement and carefree attitudes of the little boys as they have taken over the house. If only we could all emulate the hearts and actions of the children God has placed in our lives.
