One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left.

Matthew 19:13-15

Dear God, I wonder how these children’s lives turned out. Their parents too—I wonder how this experience changed them. First, we know we are starting with people who were motivated enough to do this for their children, so they obviously loved them. I guess what I’m wondering is what kind of impact Jesus’ actions here had on everyone’s lives.

Praying for your children is one of those interesting mysteries that I just don’t understand, but I think I’ve started to realize something over the last year or two. Due to the idea that all of us need to be broken down at some point and brought to the end of ourselves, sometimes your answers to our prayers for our children will not look anything like we think they should.

Father, to quote a song, I don’t know where all this is going or how it all works out. Lead me to peace that passes understanding. A peace beyond all doubt.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen