Least of These, Greatest of Heaven

"I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:1-4

Jesus holds a special place in His heart for children. Again and again the Gospels record Him saying the kingdom of heaven belongs to children, and to have the innocence of a child is a true blessing. Unfortunately, many of today’s children are quickly being stripped of that heavenly gift.

Every parent thinks his or her child grows up practically overnight. Thanks to influences from the media, society and peers, that just might be true. In fact, there are many who devote their entire lives to studying all of the factors involved in childhood development. They research the rate at which children learn, the effects of the learning environment, media intake, cultural influences, parental involvement, genetics and much more. The different possibilities to view child development are seemingly endless.

While we aren’t scientific researchers here at the Nashville Rescue Mission, we can’t help but notice the issues we are clearly seeing. It is the growing cycle of intergenerational homelessness, a main reason why we commit a substantial portion of your generosity to support our ministry to women and children.

Our ultimate goal in helping mothers and children who arrive here in distress, is to provide the tools and godly principles that will produce a solid foundation for their lives. It is our prayer that the efforts we put forth in the present, will reap dividends in the future, ensuring a more secure and hopeful life for both mother and child...and for the children to come.

I imagine these are the same thoughts that run through teachers’ minds each summer. While in their classes, teachers can monitor, mold and mentor at-risk children. But when the school year ends, all they can do is pray the children will be safe until the next year and that some of what they’ve taught them will have sunk in.

Thanks to your generosity and friendship, some of those children will surely find safety with us. At our Family Life Center and Hope Center, mothers and their children will find loving staff, intentional counseling and open arms. Thank you for helping us tend to the “least of these,” the greatest of heaven.