Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.
Matthew 19:13-15

Dear God, I know a lot of theological points have been made about this passage over the years, and I’m one who has tried to deep dive it. But I want to look at one simple thing.

Maybe this is just as simple as Jesus telling the disciples to be nice. “Hey, guys. Just chill out. These people want me to bless their children. Be nice.”

It’s easy to get so focused on my own agenda that I can let anything that gets in my way irritate me. And I can see that sometimes in my coworkers as well. And because they are on the front lines of working directly with clients than I am, I can sometimes have more perspective than they do because they are in the fog of war. So in those moments it’s not only important that I help them to see the need for additional kindness, but also show them kindness as well.

Father, remind me throughout the day that even the most difficult people need to see your kindness through me. Help me to lead with that, model that, and encourage that through others. For your glory, for your glory, for your glory.

In Jesus’s name I pray,

Amen