Thursday, August 8, 2013

The Church and Monsters, INC

Mark 10:13-16

13 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.  14 When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. 15 I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” 16 Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.

Monsters, INC.
In Disney Pixar’s Movie Monsters, INC. there is a comical scenario in which Monsters rely on the screams of children for energy.  What makes things interesting is that the Monsters are deathly afraid of children, believing that if they are even touched by a child their life will be in danger.

This scenario may be outlandish, but the central theme might not be as far from our reality as we think.  The theme, in a nut shell is that children have their purpose and place but by in large should be feared and avoided.  I think we tend to share view sometimes…ever heard the saying “children are to be seen and not heard” or “I need a break from children when I am worshiping God.”  You should see some of the looks I get when I suggest to individuals that they volunteer in the middle school programs!  

The Lesson…
One thing is for certain, this is a theme that the apostles had.  The children just weren’t a high priority for Jesus’ disciples.  To them, following Christ was a grown up affair.  Surely, Jesus was too busy doing miracles and teaching to pay any attention to these young ones.  But Jesus had something to say about this attitude.  It is an attitude that still exists in today church, and Jesus’ words still ring true.  

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