Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Mark 10:14

Michigan has an adorable license plate with little colorful hand prints that reads, "Children: Just Love 'Em."

For the most part, children are great. They can be so naive, tenderhearted and pure in the most beautiful ways. They are discerning, and spontaneous with their hugs.

But we all know there are times when children are hard to love. They may speak and say mean things with no filter. They can whine. They may act out and make poor choices in their behaviors.

Several years ago when my sons were smaller, I had a nightmare that they were being hurt in an awful way. When I awoke, I fell to my knees, sobbing in prayer. It was then that the Lord calmly revealed to me that my children were fine, and that they were blessed to have praying parents. However, He continued, He wanted me to consider that there are scores of children who do not have adults to protect them, advocate for them, or cover them in prayer. And He wanted me to keep that in mind as I pray for my own.

Just For Today, let us consider children; and if we have children, let us consider children other than our own.
Just For Today, may we be a blessing to a child. Be led by the Lord--it could be a visit, being a reading buddy, sharing a big hug, a smile, or standing in the gap in prayer for them.

Try to remember your own childhood, and an adult who made a positive and lasting impression. What you do for a child is never insignificant. We never know what kind of impact we could have on a child.

Prayer starter: Heavenly Father, thank You for the children of this world. Help us to be mindful of the children, for they are Your precious creation. In the name of Jesus, Amen.