And he took them in his arms and blessed them.

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. 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.

The world views people according its own standards of importance, age, position, wealth. Jesus views each of us as beloved. He took the opportunity with these children to bless them, even though their own culture viewed them as unimportant. And he encourages us to adopt the viewpoint of a child, to come to him in faith, to receive his blessing that we might bless others!

As we receive your blessing, so let us bless others!

ESV Lectionary