March 20, 2016

Matthew 21:15,16 NKJV - "But when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that He did, and the children crying out in the temple and saying, 'Hosanna to the Son of David!' they were indignant and said to Him, 'Do You hear what these are saying?'  And Jesus said to them, 'Yes, have you never read, Out of the mouths of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise'?"

Commentary:

Ever listen to children talk about Jesus?  Ever watch them as they sing joyful songs of praise?  Doing so might help you to understand why Jesus spoke of the need for people who wish to enter the Kingdom of Heaven first must become as little children!  Just the other Sunday in our evening service we had a little 5 year old girl who had recently "asked Jesus to be my Savior" and when we sang a joyful song of praise to Him you should have seen her move arms and torso to the music!  It was a joy to see how she worshiped Jesus with her whole being!  Nobody told her to sing with joy nor were there adults excitedly singing.  She was doing what came from her spirit in pleasure to give God her praise in the best way she knew how!  What a joy to behold!

The religious leaders of Jesus' day were offended at all the joyful praises men, women, and children were giving to Him.  They were "offended" that such an outpouring of excitement should be given to a man.  But Jesus fully accepted the praise offered to Him and I can't help but think how the children were blessed as their Savior smiled on them!

May we give God the praise that He is worthy to receive.