Chapter 47—Christ’s Encouragement to Mothers
Jesus Blessed the Children—In the days of Christ mothers
brought their children to Him, that He might lay His hands upon
them in blessing. By this act they showed their faith in Jesus and the
intense anxiety of their hearts for the present and future welfare of
the little ones committed to their care. But the disciples could not see
the need of interrupting the Master just for the sake of noticing the
children, and as they were sending these mothers away, Jesus rebuked
the disciples and commanded the crowd to make way for these faithful
mothers with their little children. Said He, “Suffer little children, and
forbid them not, to come unto Me: for of such is the kingdom of
heaven.”
As the mothers passed along the dusty road and drew near the
Saviour, He saw the unbidden tear and the quivering lip, as they
offered a silent prayer in behalf of the children. He heard the words
of rebuke from the disciples and promptly countermanded the order.
His great heart of love was open to receive the children. One after
another, He took them in His arms and blessed them, while one little
child lay fast asleep, reclining against His bosom. Jesus spoke words
of encouragement to the mothers in reference to their work, and, oh,
what a relief was thus brought to their minds! With what joy they
dwelt upon the goodness and mercy of Jesus, as they looked back to
that memorable occasion! His gracious words had removed the burden
from their hearts and inspired them with fresh hope and courage. All
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sense of weariness was gone.
This is an encouraging lesson to mothers for all time. After they
have done the best they can do for the good of their children, they may
bring them to Jesus. Even the babes in the mother’s arms are precious
in His sight. And as the mother’s heart yearns for the help she knows
she cannot give, the grace she cannot bestow, and she casts herself and
children into the merciful arms of Christ, He will receive and bless
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