Making space for children to be heard

A renegade Rabbi wows the crowds on the scrubby hills of Palestine. His manner and teaching captivate even the youngest among them.

‘Don’t bother the Rabbi’ say a throng of men towering over the little ones – their voices scalding. But Jesus says: ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven’ (Matt.19:14).

Jesus embraced children in a time when they were seen as a necessary nuisance – important socio-economic assets but not worth entertaining, much less blessing by the healer and teacher of the day. In the Gospels, we’re given a glimpse of the melting presence and power of Jesus. The God who stooped down and welcomed the weak. Vindicated the vulnerable. If church is family, children are to be given a seat at the table, and their voices heard. Children are a vital part of the church community. Their wellbeing and safety are paramount. Proverbs 31:8 encourages us to speak out on behalf of the voiceless, and for the rights of all who are vulnerable (CEB version).