Do we really understand how much Jesus loves kids?

I’ve read this text from Matthew 18 many times and every time it reminds me of Jesus doing a Mafia impression. I picture DeNiro or Pacino saying these words.

“And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Matthew 18:5-6

This was in my personal reading this week and it fit together for me. I have kids on my mind these days. We had a great night at the Jackhammers’ game in Joliet with literally the majority of the crowd being from Parkview. And our Kid’s workers were especially recognized there as this was a fun - reward night - for them. We have an amazing group of Children’s workers at this church. I say that a lot, but it’s fresh on my mind after sitting in the group of them Monday night. Selfless people, I love them.

And kids are on my mind, because I got to see John and Kim Bretzlaff’s new baby boy named Gibson (yes, after the guitar). Middle name is William, not Les Paul, though.

And kids are on my mind, because my oldest one was home for a week and she’s gone back to Music City, and we are moving Lauren into college in Wheaton tomorrow. She’s been at a camp so she “left home” already, but moving in is this weekend. And Becca is starting back to high school this week. So it’s a big change week for us.

Denise and I commented to Kim that it’s kind of weird for us to be on this side of things. They are bringing one into the world at the same time we are letting ours go on into the world. It’s really hard to believe.

Jesus went on to say,
“See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven. What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.” Matthew 18:10-14

I love kids, and everybody knows it. Probably because I am one, but this just hit me really hard about the way GOD feels about kids. It’s more than just the parent feeling that we have. It’s a responsibility that Jesus (the loving son of God) said we should take seriously - like if a Mob boss was standing there saying “take care of the kids or else.”

How cool is it that we are turning our entire first building, gym and all, into Children’s space? Our whole church met there until 2 years ago and now it will just be Children.

I think Jesus would like that. I hope so, because the new “pond” we are building for water retention in the new parking lot is pretty deep…

Tim

Comments

[Lori Salomo]

Hey Tim,
What a great article. God's view of children is so passionate. Funny, when He looks at all of redeemed humanity, we're all His kids. How great to know we have a Heavenly Father who is passionate to protect and guard His own.

Just wanted to add in my "AMEN" to your comments about our selfless, amazing children's workers. With nearly 600 kids here each weekend, God shows up because so many giving volunteers come and share their love for Christ and His Church with children. It's a beautiful thing to see. Kidz Connection would be nothing without them. Thanks to all who serve in the Nursery, Early Childhood, Elementary, Worship, Green Team, Special Needs, Special Events, VBS, and on and on. The Body of Christ is a beautiful thing and that is proven out each and every time a children's event or service takes place at Parkview.

I'm so grateful to be serving alongside these amazing folks. What an honor and a blessing!