Read
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Hebrews 10:24-25
Reflect
God’s creation constantly amazes me. Every animal has such wonderful and unique traits that not only bless and protect the animal but also offer us insights into our own lives. One that has captured my attention is the muskox. These large and hairy creatures are built for the extreme conditions of the Arctic tundra, and they roam the frozen terrain in herds of about 20.
What’s most amazing about these animals is their protective nature. Instead of just each muskox protecting itself, the entire herd attempts to gather in a protective circle when they’re threatened. The calves immediately go to the center of the circle, and the adults point their sharp horns toward the attackers, which are usually white Arctic wolves. Even when the musk oxen try to run, they eventually stop and reform their circle to protect their young, which are the easiest and most inviting targets of the wolves.
Even in nature, we can see the desire of a group to rally to protect the youngest and most vulnerable members of the group. How much more so should it be with us? Too often in churches, I’ve heard talk about how important children are, but when it comes time to spend money, the resources are diverted to the interests of the adults, while the children get the crumbs and leftovers. We’re willing to protect our children’s physical well-being, but much less willing to develop their spiritual well-being. We know that children are physically vulnerable to predators, but their spirits are also easy prey to a world hell-bent on twisting them into a lost and secular direction.
In each church, the future of the body depends on how its children are being spiritually fed. So many think that youth programs are the life and future of not only individual churches but of the Church universal. They’re important, but without godly children, it’s difficult to raise up spiritually thirsty teens. The song, “Greatest Love of All,” is a bit cheesy, but the opening line is nonetheless very true: “I believe the children are our future/ Teach them well and let them lead the way.” Whether or not we teach them well, they will be our future. So, what future do you want to prepare for them – and for yourself?
As Christians, we must deliberately and vigorously circle to defend not only the bodies of our young ones but also their minds and spirits. Whatever resources we have, a sizeable share of them should be devoted to the way that we teach our children about the love, grace, mercy and salvation of our Lord, Jesus Christ. We’re concerned about the direction of our communities, our country and our world, the change we need begins today. And it begins with the heart of a child.
Reflection copyright © 2024 Doug DeBolt and Charles Fulton.
