The biggest smile in church… may belong to God. “Let the little children come to me! Never send them away! For the Kingdom of God belongs to men who have hearts as trusting as these little children’s.” — Luke 18:16 TLB
A little boy sat next to us in church one Sunday night. As soon as he settled in his seat, I waved to him and smiled — he, in turn, flashed the widest grin! A huge Jesus smile.
I offered him a blank page from my notebook and a pen. He began to draw, and I gave him a thumbs-up. I then gave him a sheet with dotted lines that read: God is love! God loves you! I love You, Jesus. He very neatly — and quickly — traced the lines and showed me his masterpiece! He was so pleased. So was I!
When we said the benediction, I shared with him how glad I was to have worshipped with him, seen his great drawing, and his pleasant smile. On the way out, he was waving the whole time until our paths separated.
The preached Word was so fulfilling that evening, and the Word lived in this beautiful life was also fulfilling! Such innocence and simplicity are a welcome pleasure. I was so touched. Hope was renewed just from being in his presence — His presence.
Then Jesus called the children over and said, “Let the little children come to me! Never send them away! For the Kingdom of God belongs to men who have hearts as trusting as these little children’s. And anyone who doesn’t have their kind of faith will never get within the Kingdom’s gates.” Luke 18:16 TLB
Being with babies, small children, and aging adults sometimes makes heaven feel a little closer than usual! By the power, wisdom, and leading of the Holy Spirit, these tender, eager, frail, dependent hearts just know within their spirits when they are greatly loved, encouraged, cheered on, and enjoyed for the special, unique gift God created them to be. There is such innocent trust in their eyes and smiles revealed on their faces!
Unless we become as a child, we cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. They teach us so much — if we are teachable, if we humble ourselves, if we yield to God’s prompting and are willing to be taught. And a child shall lead them.
Is there a child — or someone with a childlike heart — in your life who just needs a wave, a smile, and a moment of your time? This week, give it to them. And ask God to renew that same kind of simple, trusting faith in you.
Parting is such sweet sorrow — but the hope they leave behind? That stays.
Who will you encourage with a smile this week?
©2026 Penelope White. Use with the author’s permission. Send requests to penywhite@hotmail.com
Penelope Allen White is a wife, mother of two young adult sons, and grandmother. Her passion is for all children and people to have an intimate knowledge of God. She works as a Christian educator, speaker, church school curriculum writer and teacher, workshop facilitator, middle school counselor, and neighborhood tutor. Despite her busy schedule, she still finds time to enjoy a game of hopscotch!
Kids and parents, grab this easy-to-read storytelling manual and learn how to write your own story.