The fact that our heart yearns for something Earth can't supply is proof that Heaven must be our home.

Beware: As we enter adulthood, a fierce competitive spirit ignites within us, making it crucial for adults to beware. Who among us can claim the title of the fairest, wealthiest, most brilliant, and most talented? Embracing a single answer requires genuine pride. Satan, the most ruthless and prideful villain, makes Snow White's evil stepmother, Queen Elspeth, seem tame in comparison.

It was through Pride that the devil became the devil. Pride leads to every other vice; it is the complete anti-God state of mind." -C.S. Lewis. 

Friends, we are reminded of the profound wisdom of our beloved teacher, Jesus, in Matthew 18:1-4. In this beautiful passage, we learn a powerful lesson that transcends time and touches the essence of our being. 

The gospels reveal that, on numerous occasions, Jesus spoke to his devoted disciples about his imminent crucifixion. Despite feeling heartbroken, they were still determined to engage in a spirited battle for greatness. Satan was ready to unleash pride's full potential on an unsuspecting world.

The ambitious disciples asked Jesus, "Who among us shall claim the title of the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" Christ searched into the depths of their souls and responded with these profound words: "Truly, I tell you, unless you embrace the purity and innocence of children, the gates to the kingdom of heaven shall remain closed to you." Imagine their shock! 

Through this thought-provoking illustration, Christ revealed that the accurate measure of wealth is not in the material things that money, power, and greed can buy.

Thankfully, Jesus taught with a heart full of love and grace. He had a remarkable gift of connecting with people from all walks of life, effortlessly speaking to their souls in the language that resonated most with them. His messages radiate with a boundless warmth that effortlessly bridges the gaps between us, igniting a flame of inspiration that invites us to embark on a heartfelt expedition of self-discovery. He showed us that the most valuable treasures lie within the depths of our hearts and souls, waiting to be discovered and cherished. A child's heart trusts like no other. That is how we draw closest to Him! 

Beware: Far too many adults feel they don't need Christ and believe they can make it through life alone. But only when we renounce our Pride and come to Him with the humility and trust of a child can we truly be saved.

For Christians, humility is indispensable. Without it, there can be no self-knowledge, no repentance, no faith, and no salvation. -Aiden Wilson Tozer

As Christian parents, leaders, teachers, caregivers, etc., may we remember Jesus' warning and not let Pride hinder our relationship with him. Indeed, Jesus is not asking us to abandon all discernment, quite the opposite. But He is asking us to keep our focus on heavenly things! 

Prayer: O God, who resists the proud and gives grace to the humble, grant us the virtue of true humility, where Your Only-Begotten Son showed in Himself a pattern for Your faithful; that we may never, by our pride, provoke Your anger, but rather, by our humility, receive the riches of Your grace. Amen. (www.turnbacktogod.com/prayers-for-humility/)

Oh, how beautiful and heartwarming is the purity and innocence radiating from a child's Soul!

-by Lois Macdonald