We might contrast the philosopher or ascetic who thinks children are an interference with higher things. The welcoming of children to our services is an important characteristic of Messianic worship. And it is hard to imagine Jesus refusing to have children at the family table. Now he notes that children also need the laying on of hands and prayer. Cuddling a child is no longer politically correct, and can result in being sued for child abuse.
Blessing is viewed as a religious act which some school boards say is illegal.
Hopefully we can still lay a hand on a child's head with a silent prayer. Turning from the value of children we look at the question of someone who is left anonymous. His question about eternal life suggests that he was a devout Pharisee. Luke identifies him as a ruler, which could indicate he was a member of the Sanhedrin or governing body of the Jewish people. The man's question was about goodness, or the good, or the good thing to do.