Conversion isn't enough? The invitation is to be converted and become like little children. How significant is that little conjunction! It links the two expectations of entering the Kingdom. In other words, conversion leads to conformity. In the natural we say, "Oh, grow up!" In the spiritual we're counseled, "Oh, grow down!"
What is it about a child?
- A child is simple. He hasn't lived long enough nor been educated enough to complicate things. His world is simple, his vocabulary is simple, his understanding is simple.
- A child is quick to delight in small things. Take a three-year-old for a walk in the park. See how long it is before he collects acorns, rocks, moss and bark. Why? He's intrigued by them. Think not? Watch what happens when you try to take the bag and threaten to scatter the contents! He protests, thinking you're belittling his "treasures."
- A child is quick to trust, until parents or pain teach him not to. Instinctively, he wants to go to people. That child went to Jesus simply because Jesus called.
- A child easily imagines heroic accomplishments. Watch that boy play with his plastic toy soldiers. He never loses a battle! Listen to that girl tell you what she's going to do when she grows up. It's never anything ho-hum, boring or ordinary. With what vividness and passion she speaks!
- A child asks a ton of questions and expects honest answers.
- A child finds its security in its parents. At least he or she wants to. Dad or Mom or both are always "there."
- A child doesn't consider himself great until someone or something calls it out. He's just too busy having fun being a child.
