Matthew, Mark and Luke each share this simple story of Jesus welcoming and blessing children after the disciples had tried to send them away. Mark’s account is the longest, four verses in total. It’s a simple story but it conveys at least two messages that are vitally important. As Jesus welcomes the children He offers an important example for a culture that didn’t place much value on children. And then He uses the opportunity to convey a significant truth about the way of salvation.