Accepting a Gift with Humility Articles / Christianity Feb 24, 2010 - 08:39 AM Journeys with the Messiah - Ragamuffins As we are in a focused season of Lent leading up to one of the most significant events in history, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, I'd like for you to think today about how we are to relate to God as little children ... [1]When Jesus said to His followers, ?To enter the Kingdom of Heaven, you must come as little children?, I assumed He meant because of their innocence. Then, reflecting back on my time as a child and times I have watched my own or others playing, I could only conclude that ?their innocence? was not the virtue to which Jesus was speaking. Children were loved in the first century, but unlike children today, the world did not revolve around them ? gifts for every occasion, birthday parties and trips to Disney World. Children were more humble, having fewer expectations than children today. The Kingdom will be a gift to people who know they are not worthy of such a gift ? ?the poor in spirit? - the people who are not trying to impress others or position themselves where they will look good to the King. ?Come as little children? means come to Him in humility, expecting nothing, knowing that grace and salvation come as His gift. A relationship with Christ is much more about the gift received than what we give up. Take some time today to read and reflect on Mark 10:13-15 for the start of Lent. Continue your 40-day focus with thanking God for the relationship you have with Him and others. Blessings - Michael Belk This article is from On Time Christian Internet Radio Station   http://ontimeradio.com/ The URL for this story is:   http://ontimeradio.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=620 Links in this article   [1] http://www.thejourneysproject.com/image-detail.aspx?id=283