Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Luke 18:15-16
Lord Jesus, this Scripture is timely, centering, and hope-giving. It reminds us of the only unshakable, eternal, and glorious kingdom—the Kingdom of God, and of our most compelling, privileged, and everlasting citizenship—the one we received in the Gospel (Phil.3:20).
But above all, it further endears you to us, Jesus—as our loving Savior, reigning King, and returning Bridegroom. We didn’t vote you in; you wrote us into your heart and story. The Kingdom is yours and you are free to give it to whomever you wish. In particular, we are grateful today for your passionate, compassionate, generous heart for children.
Our hearts break for children orphaned by war and other tragedies. Children who have experienced traumas and darkness beyond our imagining. Children in cancer wards and stuck in foster care systems. Children who are trafficked when they should be treasured. Our own children and grandkids—who may have trust funds but don’t trust you yet.
Jesus, here’s what we cling to and count on. By your life, death, and resurrection, you have put an expiration date on all evil, hate, and brokenness. Words like “orphan,” “child pornography,” “unwanted child,” “abused children” will be erased from the human vocabulary. Hasten that Day, Lord. You have also inaugurated your Kingdom of “all things new” and “everything beautiful.” Hallelujah, your Kingdom is here and it is growing.
Give us a heart to understand that as we live for the things you died for we are participating in the firstfruits of your Kingdom. Every child adopted, or rescued from trafficking, or released from poverty is evidence your tomb is empty, your throne is occupied, and your Kingdom is coming. Hallelujah and
So Very Amen.
