Friday April 5

Matthew 18:1-9

Amy Hewett-Olatunde

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

In verse 5 Jesus says, “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” In humility, Jesus identifies himself with a child, one with no status and power.  Throughout the Bible, Jesus identifies with the marginalized, the needy, and the powerless. Jesus states the implications of causing the downfall of  “the little ones who believe in me. It would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:6). Wow! Could this be any more prophetic?  This warning transcends time? Throughout history, we fail to learn from our mistakes. Power in the hands of darkness can be overcome; it takes a voice, an action, a change.

When teaching my beautiful 6th grade scholars, I ask them the same question every day: “Who can make the biggest and best changes in the world?” At the beginning of the school year, only a few students would answer without much confidence. Then, my Vietnamese student, in a loud and emphatic voice said, “We are, people. Come on, just say it! We are!” From that day on, the whole class now answers this question with confidence. You see, adults don’t always make the best decisions, but children see things from a different perspective. When we see others’ children being mistreated, separated from their parents, we forsake our duty to God. Listen to the children, be the children, make the change for the children.

Questions for reflection:

• Why is it important for me to advocate, even if no one else will?

• When power unleashes in the most inhumane of ways, how are children affected?

Prayer:

Father, always give me the fortitude to stand up for and stand with children, regardless the consequences. Help me to always understand that it is not “your children” or “my children” but “our children”, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, or status. Be ever present as I and others work to protect the world’s greatest resources: our children. Amen.