Some people brought their babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. The disciples saw them and scolded them for doing so, but Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the children come to me and do not stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Remember this! Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.' - Luke 18 v 15 -17
Lord Jesus, when I think of the way you welcomed babies and how, when their mothers brought them to you, you gave each one a cuddle, I catch a glimpse of just how valuable every single human life is to you. Then I think of the unhappiness of this world - of abused and neglected children, of the starving masses in the Third World, of those caught up against their will in conflict or war. Lord hear me as I cry to you for all who are in any kind of need. Bring healing to the sick, food to the hungry, comfort to the dying, I pray. Please help all those who try to relieve human suffering - aid-workers, medical staff, peace-makers and peace-keepers. Give to those of us who do have all the things essential to living such generosity that we will willingly share what we have with those in need.