Then he took a little child and put it among them; and taking it in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me.’ (Mark 9: 36-37)

We have - largely as a result of Christianity - come to romanticize children. This is especially true during Christmas-time.

In the ancient world children were certainly the object of their parent's love. But they were extended minimal legal or economic value.

Children were perceived as consumers rather than producers of value. At best they were potential sources of value.

In seeking to refocus his followers understanding of greatness Jesus suggests the lowest and least are guides to the highest and best.

Whenever one of little value is welcomed it is as if the source of ultimate value is welcomed. The Greek translated as welcome is dechomai. This is literally "to take with the hand."

Who have you devalued? Who have you decided is not worth your time or attention? Take his or her hand in yours. God is waiting for you there.