And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.

Mark 10:13-16

And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Mark 10:13-14

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Mark 10:13-16.  Excerpts from the commentary's introduction to this text and for the first (of two) division (vv13-14):

• The title for the this chapter of the commentary covering the entirety of the text (vv13-16) is "Jesus Loves the Little Children (Why I Believe Children Who Die Go to Heaven)."
• The main idea from the commentary for the entirety of the text is "Jesus loves all children, and He lovingly calls all people to become like dependent children if they are to enter His kingdom." 
• The title for the first division per the commentary is: "We Should Bring Children to Jesus."  
• "Throughout history the intrinsic value of children has often been ignored. Biblical examples of dishonoring children as image bearers include Herod’s killing of babies during Jesus’ day, mirroring the Pharaoh in Exodus. In general children were not held in high esteem by Romans. By Jesus’ time Romans had a trash heap beside many homes where people could leave unwanted children. If other people wanted the children, they would pick them up. Sometimes these kids were raised to be prostitutes, gladiators, or slaves. Unfortunately, the world is not much safer for today’s children."  
• "The only way to have a balanced view of children is to have a biblical view, to see them as God sees them: they are His gifts to parents (Psalms 127:3-5); they provide an illustration as to how we enter the kingdom of God (Mark 9:14-15)."  
• "Chapter 10 divides into five major sections: Jesus teaches on marriage in verses 1-12 and on children in verses 13-16. Then He addresses the perils of possessions (vv17-31) and the glory of sacrificial service (vv32-45). Finally, Jesus responds to the faith of a blind man (vv46-52). The concern and love our Savior has for children is crystal clear."   
• "One would have a difficult time finding in ancient literature concern for children comparable to that shown by Jesus (Edwards, Mark, 306)." 
• We are encouraged to be like those who brought the children to Jesus in v13.  Stand up and focus on children. 
• V14 "is the only time Jesus is said to be “indignant.” His righteous anger was aroused, and He publicly rebuked them. James Edwards says, “The object of a person’s indignation reveals a great deal about the person. Jesus’ displeasure here reveals his compassion and defense of the helpless, vulnerable, and powerless” (Mark, 306). Jesus is affirming that children are worth His time, and they should be worth our time!" 
• "There are several ways we can consistently and actively lead children to Christ. We can evangelize them with a gospel-saturated home. We can disciple them with a Bible-saturated home. We can pray with them in a prayer-saturated home. We can encourage them, bless them, and challenge them." 

I indeed feel blessed by children, echoing the words of Psalm 127:3-5.  I also understand the responsibilities God charges myself and Lisa with to be parents.  Father God please help us be the parents You design us to be!

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that saves, loves, and blesses - including marriage and children.  Thank You!  I am not deserving of my salvation nor these blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.