“People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. 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. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’”
- Luke 18:15-17 -

In Luke 18:9-17, we learn how to pray (9-14) and how to receive God's kingdom (15-17). The Pharisee prayed in self-righteousness, boasting how he lived a religious life. But the tax collector prayed as a sinner, seeking God's mercy. Jesus said that God accepted his prayer and he was justified. We should be aware of our self-righteousness for it blinds us to see who we truly are before God. Jesus then says that we should receive God's kingdom like little children. Children have a pure heart and a learning mind. They simply trust in God, hearing the story of the Bible. We must receive God’s kingdom like a child. Jesus says, "The kingdom belongs to such as these."

Prayer: Dear Lord, I repent of my self-righteousness and pride. Give me a humble and pure heart like a little child. Let me grow in the righteousness, peace and joy of your kingdom in the Holy Spirit.