“And the streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in the streets thereof.” Zech. 8:5.
“They are like unto children sitting in the market place, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you and ye have not wept.” Luke 7:32.
What does it mean? Why, these children had been trying to please their companions, but they could not! First they offered to have a game of piping and dancing, but that did not please them; then they suggested a mournful funeral, but it was no good. Nothing would please these unhappy playmates. We have all seen children of that kind, or read about them in books, but I hope none of my little readers will see the likeness of one in the mirror.
The children in the Bible played just as children do nowadays. Some were nice and gentle, and kind and considerate in their games. Some were otherwise.
A child who loves the Saviour will PLAY like a little Christian, as well as learn lessons so as to please Him.
A tiny boy once had a toy given to him, and he was so pleased with it that he fairly raced around the room for joy, showing it to his friends. Presently he held it up and said, “Dear Jesus, look at my nice new toy!” I believe the blessed Lord was pleased to look at that little child’s toy and to enter into his joy in possessing it.
“Suffer the little children to come unto Me,... And He took them up in His arms,... and blessed them.” Mark 10:14, 16.
ML-05/06/1962