People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. (Mark 10: 13-14)

Translating the Greek as the "kingdom of God belongs" to the little children is entirely reasonable. But the original Greek also has more expansive possibilities.

The relationship of the children to the kingdom of God is implied through the use of eimi. The meaning of this verb is highly dependent on context.

Jesus may also be saying, "it is to such as these that the kingdom of God exists... or is present... or happens."

Children can be hurtful and do much harm. But they are open to change. They are alive to what is happening around them. They will respond to what is present.

Too often I choose not to recognize the present power of God. Like the disciples I discount the abilty to see, hear, and respond to God-with-us.

A lesson on eimi is available from ibiblio.com.