By Dean Kelly

Minister, Highland Home Church of Christ

The tiny three-year-old looked pitifully up at her mother. The parents are trying to get her to eat and drink, but right now she is struggling just to catch her breath. She feels like a hot-water bottle on her Momma’s chest. She is as sick as her parents have ever seen her. That matters!

So much fades into insignificance when they look at her: the football that seemed so important a couple of days ago; the finances that can take such time and sweat; unbought Christmas presents; the rushing and hustling of life – it all fades into the background. It is as though time stands still, and the world is surreal as it passes by. It puts into perspective what really matters.

God matters. Everything is based on and revolves around God. “In Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Without Him nothing makes sense and there is no hope.

Love matters. True, pure, biblical, unselfish love matters. It does not ignore truth but gains its strength from truth. It is not just a feeling, it is an entire attitude of heart, soul, and life that puts others first. 

That sick little one matters. “13 Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” 16 And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them (Mark 10:13-16). Jesus still holds the children in His arms – at the feet of the cross.