MONDAY

Isaiah 49:15

One of the images used in Scripture to describe the relationship between God and us is that of a parent with their children. Genesis 1:2 describes the Spirit hovering over the waters as Creation is about to begin, bringing to mind the imagery of a mother eagle hovering over her eaglet-filled nest. Today’s passage from Isaiah invites us to contemplate the likelihood of a mother forgetting the baby held to her breast or not having compassion on the children to whom she has given birth. Jesus in Matthew 23:37 invokes the image of a hen gathering her chicks under her wings. These passages are rich in insights into the way God regards and cares for us, and they remind us of how loved and valuable children are. As much as we know this, this week’s key text reminds us that Jesus takes this a step further, declaring that children are valuable not only because we love them as we do, but also because they model qualities central to the life of the Kingdom that we too easily lose track of. Because we live in a world where things can happen in ways that damage, distort, or perhaps even deprive some children from experiencing the loving nurture that they so much need, it is all the more important that we find ways to ensure that as many children as possible are able to experience love, affirmation, and care. This is the right thing to do. But, what we also too easily miss is that children, in turn, bless us by modeling and reminding us of what God’s Kingdom is all about.

• How does the imagery of a parent looking into the eyes of their newborn child give us a glimpse of the way we are loved by God?

• How does knowing that we are children of God in this way guide us when it comes to how we relate to our own children, or the children of those who may be entrusted in our care?

• As you think about your own children, those who may be in your care, or your own relationship with God, how does this imagery speak to you?

• What qualities of children do you find yourself most drawn towards?

• As you reflect on this, what issues or questions does this raise?

• To what extent do you live in the awareness that God regards you as described in the imagery of this passage?

Take a few moments to talk with God in prayer about what surfaces for you as you reflect on today’s passage.