Lambs of Jesus Flock

Those who love God should feel deeply interested in the children and youth. To them God can reveal His truth and salvation. Jesus calls the little ones that believe on Him, the lambs of His flock. He has a special love for and interest in the children. . . . The most precious offering that the children can give to Jesus, is the freshness of their childhood. 

Reflecting Christ, p. 373

Sabbath, a Special Favor

God granted special favor to his children by offering them the Sabbath. Six days a week we can spend time with Jesus, but he set the Sabbath day apart especially for time with him. Celeste perrino Walker says... 

• "he meets with us just to be with us, to refresh us, to celebrate with us. The thousands of things that haunt us, the multiple forms of media that clamor for our attention, the need to do, to find, and to see is stilled for twenty-four hours as the God of the universe stoops low to meet with us for a weekly spiritual date." [Making Sabbath Special, page 16]

What a special favor!

He Received Them Gladly

As the children gathered the wildflowers growing so abundantly around them, and crowded up to present to Him their little offerings, He received them gladly, smiled upon them, and expressed His joy at seeing so many varieties of flowers.

TheUpward Look, p. 57

Sharing Childish Joys & Sorrows

Christ watched children at their play, and often expressed His approval when they gained an innocent victory over something they were determined to do. He sang to children in sweet and blessed words. They knew that He loved them. He never frowned on them. He shared their childish joys and sorrows. Often He would gather flowers, and after pointing out their beauties to the children, would leave them with them as a gift. He had made the flowers and He delighted to point out their beauties.

Upward Look, p. 57

Children, His Heritage

These children were His heritage. He knew that He had come to ransom them from the enemy by dying on the cross of Calvary. He spoke words to them that ever after they carried in their hearts. They were delighted to think that He appreciated their gifts and spoke so lovingly to them.

Upward Look, p. 57

Adopted into His Family

God wants every child of tender age to be His child, to be adopted into His family.

Counsels to Teachers and Parents, p. 169  

Jesus Draws the Children

When Jesus told the disciples not to forbid the children to come to Him, He was speaking to His followers in all ages,--to officers of the church, to ministers, helpers, and all Christians. Jesus is drawing the children, and He bids us, Suffer them to come; as if He would say, They will come if you do not hinder them.

Desire of Ages, p. 517

God's Plan for Families

"God planned for families in the beginning, and He still plans for them. Our children are a precious trust. We will never know on this earth just how far the influences of our homes have reached. 'One well-ordered, well-disciplined family tells more in behalf of Christianity than all the sermons that can be preached.'"

Ellen White, The Adventist Home
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