“Only people who love Jesus go to Heaven. If you don’t love Jesus you have to apologize!”

Those were the profound words stated frankly by our granddaughter Reagan when she was age four (almost five). While you might quibble about the exact accuracy of the apologize statement, we all know the truthfulness of what she had to say.

When I think of those words, I smile. I also think of what Jesus told us. These four truths come quickly to mind.

First, I am reminded that we must become as little children to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3). 

Among other things, Jesus obviously meant we need the trusting nature of a child and the child’s dependence on others for all their needs. How hard it is for adults to depend on others–even God.

I have noticed through the years how little children have a sense of God that goes beyond their family or upbringing. It’s as if their innocence lets them see God in a way older people cannot. Our familiarity with sin too often keeps us from the things of God.

I marvel at the children in our church. They have a heart for God and the things of God that many older people don’t have.

No wonder Jesus told us we must become as little children to enter the kingdom of heaven.

Second, as I think of Reagan’s statement, I think of the statement of Jesus that “unless you repent, you too will all perish” (Luke 13:3). That’s where the apology comes in. To follow Christ is a decision–a decision that leads you to love and adore Him and to live constantly in His presence.

We have to agree with God about our sin–that we cannot know or follow Him unless we turn our back on sin, iniquity, and rebellion.

Third, I am reminded that every knee shall bow before Jesus (Philippians 2:10-11) either now which gives us an eternity with God or later (too late) when an apology will have to be made. 

Finally, when I think of Reagan’s statement, I think how she must make her Heavenly Father smile–even more than her mom and dad and grandparents. Our Heavenly Father wants all of us to know Him closely and lovingly. He wants us to speak and live the truth. He is truth.

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