322 Jesus Blesses the Nephite Children

Matthew 18:3; 3 Nephi 17:1125
And he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them. 3 Nephi 17:21

During His mortal ministry, Jesus often took time to bless little children. He taught His disciples that one must become like a little child to enter the kingdom of heaven (see Matthew 18:3).

After His Resurrection, Jesus visited the Nephites to teach and bless them. During this time He asked that the little children be brought to Him (see 3 Nephi 17:11). When they were gathered about Him, He knelt down and prayed to Heavenly Father for all His people (see 3 Nephi 17:15). So great was the love and faith of the multitude for their Savior that He declared: "Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now behold, my joy is full" (3 Nephi 17:20). After saying this, Jesus wept because He had such great love for the people. Then He took the children one by one and blessed them and prayed for them. (See 3 Nephi 17:21.)

Afterward, Jesus wept again and said to the people, "Behold your little ones" (3 Nephi 17:23). Then, as the multitude watched, the heavens opened and angels came in great glory to minister to the children. The children were encircled by this heavenly glory and looked as though they were surrounded by fire. (See 3 Nephi 17:24.) This wonderful event was witnessed by the entire multitude, and they "did see and hear and bear record" (3 Nephi 17:25).

Summary

Jesus wants all children to know He loves them. After His Resurrection, Jesus visited the Nephites to teach and bless them. He asked that the children be brought to Him so He could bless them and pray for them. As the Nephites watched, the heavens opened and angels came down and circled the children; the children looked as if they were being circled by fire.

Artist, Robert T. Barrett

© 1997 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA