But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matt 19:14
On Sunday, Ross reminded us that inasmuch the 5th Commandment requires us to honour our parents, Paul tells us not to exasperate our children. Expanding on that, this means treating them with dignity and respect.
While the vast majority of us do so, there are those in our society who prey on them, mistreat them, use them for slave labour. Children suffer as refugees from war, starvation through famines and other natural causes.
There are many organisations looking after the special needs of these victims. Among these are Childline, Child Welfare SA, Teddy Bear Foundation, Tears SA and Men and Women Against Child abuse. These provide counselling, therapeutic treatment, forensic services and care, all attempting to provide places of safety and wellbeing for children in our country and beyond.
Lord, we pray for:
- The innocent and vulnerable children in our society who are facing abuse, neglect, or danger. We ask that You place Your shield of protection around them. May every child know that they are deeply valued, chosen, and safe under Your wings.
- For those forced into slave labour or into a life of prostitution for their rescue and rehabilitation from the scars and traumas of their lives
- The many organisations here that assist in caring for and protecting our children
- Parents, as they care for and love their children, that they may treat them with respect and dignity as they raise them
- Those parents who, for whatever reason are unable to do so
- That You convict the hearts of those who harm children and replace hatred or indifference with Your love.