People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. –Mark 10:13-16
Scholars confirm, that Biblically speaking, a blessing is understood as a divine favor, gift, or approval that brings spiritual, physical, or material benefit. Blessings are associated with God’s presence, grace, and provision, and they serve as a means through which God’s will and goodness are expressed to individuals, communities, and creation.
In the Old Testament, blessings are tangible—promises of land, offspring, and prosperity, seen in covenants with figures like Abraham and David. Old Testament blessings often reflect God’s desire for justice, community, and love. Blessings and love are key components of God’s relationship with humanity, and they challenge believers to act justly and love both God and neighbor.
In the New Testament, blessings take on a more spiritual and communal dimension through Jesus’ ministry. Many scholars agree that Jesus reshapes the understanding of blessing, focusing not just on material benefits but on the relational connection to God and neighbor. The Sermon on the Mount’s beatitudes, for instance, offer blessings to those who are poor, meek, and peacemakers—signifying that the true blessing is found in embodying God’s kingdom values.
No one is exempt from being worthy of receiving God’s blessing or sharing it. The blessing of Jesus is often an explicit call for an inclusion and love that reflects the ongoing relationship between God and humanity, one that demands responsibility, love, and justice.
Repeatedly, we are reminded not only of the blessings we receive but the blessing we are called to be as a community. We are finding true joy in being together, welcoming others, and expressing love rather than judgment. On Sunday we will remember the sacrament of our baptism and the blessing we received to “go and walk in the newness of life.”
Don’t forget that our 50th Anniversary will happen on November 3rd so start looking through your closets for that 1970’s outfit you will wear to church that day! Our ladies are also recruiting folks to cook specific recipes from our All-Church Cookbook, and we could use your expertise! I look forward to worshipping with you in person or on YouTube Sunday.
Brett