This post is part of a 40-day journey following Jesus in his prayer life. We’ll explore virtually every reference in the Gospels to Jesus and prayer. For a more in-depth treatment, see my book Prayers from the Pit.
“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. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.’ And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them” (Mark 10:13-16 ESV).
Mark introduces us to another occasion at which Jesus “blesses.” A blessing can be either a petition or a praise. A petition for God to show favor on someone. A praise to God for providing something. Here Jesus blesses in the form of petition. He prays for God to show favor upon these children.
Not only is the blessing remarkable. So is the way in which is it is delivered. Jesus does not stand aloof from these kids. He doesn’t perform some cold and formal ritual. Instead, he scoops them up in his arms, places his hands on them, and blesses them.
Imagine what it must have felt like for a child, having just been dismissed by Jesus’ disciples, to have been picked up by Jesus and blessed by him. Close your eyes. Picture Jesus holding you in his arms. Hear him saying, “God bless you, my child.”
Look for opportunities today to do the same for others. Pray prayers of blessings over others, especially those who, like these children, may be overlooked by others. Bless your children, a friend, your spouse, your boss, your waitress, the janitor, your teacher, your parents, your neighbor, your mail carrier, or the man with the cardboard sign asking for money. Utilize the following blessings out loud or silently as you pray over people today:
- The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. (Num. 6:24-26 ESV)
- May the LORD give strength to you! May the LORD bless you with peace! (based on Ps. 29:11 ESV)
- May God be gracious to you and bless you and make his face to shine upon you, that His way may be known on earth, His saving power among all nations. (based on Ps. 67:1-2 ESV)
- May you be blessed by the LORD, who made heaven and earth! (Ps. 115:15 ESV)
- The LORD bless you! May you see the prosperity of his work all the days of your life! May you live a long life! Peace be upon you! (based on Ps. 128:5-6 ESV)
- May the LORD bless you, he who made heaven and earth! (based on Ps. 134:3 ESV)
