Throughout the centuries, children have played many different roles in society: from household help and manual labor, to subjects of worship, to burdens and afterthoughts. The value and purpose of a child in society sometimes flutters and varies from generation to generation. However, the word of God paints a clear picture of who children truly are: just like men and women, children come from God, and even their young, immature state, they bring him glory – they bear his image, and they are made to walk with him, shine his light, and grow in wisdom and stature and favor with God and man (Luke 2:52). When the disciples pushed the children away, thinking they were a distraction to the important work of ministry Jesus was doing to the adults gathered, Jesus rebuked them and said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). We have heard this familiar verse, but what does it mean to hinder children from coming to Jesus? What does it look for us modern, Bay Area dwellers to keep these who Jesus said we should model our trust in him off of away from the God who made them? Maybe we valuing our children’s academic and career development, but forgetting to put the proper time and care into their spiritual nourishment. Or do we focus on our own calling and career or ministry, prioritizing impact that can be applauded either by the world or by church members – people who can give us something in return in the form of esteem or provision? Let us all, me included, search our hearts, and ask the Holy Spirit how we can partner with him to bring these little ones straight to the one who will give them everlasting life. | 
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