Among the blessings of being married to a pediatrician are the countless stories of childlike innocence, purity, and goodness my wife shares upon returning home from the hospital. Often, her days are brightened by the simplest things, like a child asking to use her stethoscope or another asking if they can ride “the slippery stairs” (the escalator).

One of the stories that sticks with me involved a young girl braving cancer treatment—I will call her Abigail. While my wife was caring for her, Abigail asked, “Will you color with me?” This simple question revealed a childlike apathy towards titles, credentials, and the busy schedule of a physician. At first glance, this question’s “inconsiderate” nature appalls those of us who, like the disciples in the gospel, have “matured” past thinking like children.

But Jesus says the kingdom belongs to those like Abigail; thus, he shows us another way of approaching her question. He shows us that Abigail shares a profound sentiment: “I am grateful you are taking care of me. I trust you, and I want you to be my friend.”

As our Divine Physician, Jesus asks that we accept his love with Abigail’s childlike trust and allow him to heal our sinful nature. When responsibilities and busyness are obstacles to this relationship, he wants us to remember that nothing is more important than inviting him into our lives and trusting in his providence. Adults who learn to live in childlike dependence on God are called by another name: Saints.

My wife returned home glowing that day because she had spent an hour of her morning coloring with Abigail. Indeed, it is the children who bring us to Jesus.