Seeing Children the Way Jesus Sees

Children are some of the easiest people to notice. You can hear them by their laughter, or their sudden outbursts of tears, or the pitter-patter of their feet echoing down the hallway as they run freely. They’re unconcerned about how they look or sound to others, only about how excited they are to reach the playground or build their LEGO set.

Children’s Day, then, celebrated on 25 October in Malaysia, is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a reminder to honour their place in God’s heart. Whether we are parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, teachers, good or not-so-good with kids, this day invites us to reflect on how we view children and what Jesus thinks of them.

Children as the model for kingdom living

In Matthew 18:1-5, Jesus’ disciples debated who would be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. In reply, Jesus called a little child to stand among them. Then He said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (verse 3).

In those few sentences, Jesus turned the world’s idea of greatness upside down. Where children were seen as powerless and unimportant in those days, Jesus commended their childlike trust, humility and openness as the very model for kingdom living.

Verse 3’s “change” (strephō) means to turn around and reorient one’s heart and direction. And the word for “become” (ginomai) denotes a process of transformation. Jesus wasn’t merely asking His disciples to “think like” children, but to become childlike: to turn from pride, independence, and self-sufficiency to being open-hearted, humble, and quick to forgive.

A teacher’s personal experience

As a teacher, I have learned that teaching extends far beyond academic content or visible progress. Each day reminds me that I’m only a vessel—called to be kind, patient, and to embody Jesus’ hands and feet, even when my strength runs out.

A classroom—or a home—without children may seem peaceful and quiet, but it also feels emptier. Children may seem messy or disruptive; but it’s through play, imagination, wonder, laughter, and chatter that they learn and grow.

Before the school day ends, my class of five to six-year-olds often gathers in a circle to share: “I am proud of…” or “I want to thank…” Their responses always touch my heart, especially after a long day, and remind me that faith can be simple.

“I’m proud of my playtime.”
“I’m proud of you, Teacher.”
“I want to thank my friend for being kind.”

Another reflection of mine is this: When a child reacts or struggles, it’s not always defiance. Often, it’s simply because they don’t yet know how to love, be patient, or be kind. That’s why adults are so influential. We’re role models and they rely on us to show them how.

Children need guidance, yes; but above all, they need love and protection. And in a deeper sense, so do we. We, too, were once children. And now God calls us to be like children again, especially if we’ve accepted Him as our Lord and Saviour and been “born again”.

We are all Abba Father’s children

Through Christ, we are welcomed into the family of our heavenly Father. Galatians 4:6 reminds us, “Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’”

Whether we are married, single, with or without children, our call is to trust Him with the same wholehearted dependence a child has towards their parents: resting in His love, running to Him with our joy and tears, and finding safety in His arms.

So as you encounter any children around you today, pause to see them the way Jesus does: as precious, beloved, and full of wonder. Above all, may we know the truth that we are beloved children of God—called to turn, to trust and be fully dependent on our Abba Father.

About the Author

Joycelyn Lim is a contributor to Our Daily Bread Ministries Malaysia. Born and raised in Penang, she is an educator who finds joy in inspiring young learners and is passionate about building safe, nurturing relationships—with her students and the people she meets. She enjoys Penang’s local food, going to the gym, and spending time with her family (including her dog!).

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