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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: When I was a child I thought of Easter as the purity of spring, baby bunnies, and colored eggs. Now that I’m a parent and have children, I am amazed at their comprehension of what the true meaning of Easter is. Because I let them go to Sunday school with neighbors, they learned about the newness of life through Jesus and they taught it to me. At first, I felt ashamed, but when I see my children excited that I now take them to church, my heart overflows with joy that I’ve never known. Is this why the Bible says that we must become like little children? – C.E.

A: “Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven’” (Matthew 18:2–3, NKJV).

When we have confessed and renounced our sins and by faith received Christ into our hearts, then we receive a new heart from God. Only then can we be called “pure in heart.” This is not an emotional experience, though emotion may be a factor. We may not “feel” that we have a new heart, but we can accept the fact by faith. Faith goes beyond logic, and children have the capacity to receive the saving grace of God’s love. This is why Jesus said that we must become as little children before we can enter the kingdom of Heaven.

It has been said that there was a cross in the heart of God long before the cross was erected at Calvary. As we think about it, we will be overwhelmed at the wonder and greatness of His love for us. When we come to Jesus with humble and repentant hearts, He puts within us a new and pure heart that will love and serve Him, because we are His children.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

©2025 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c)2025 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.