Weekly devotion: “Let the little children come to me”

Child Friendly Spaces, Syria

A group of children at one of the Child Friendly Spaces we support.

The Syrian Civil War (2012-2024) has been one of the world’s most complex humanitarian emergencies and has inflicted unimaginable loss and devastation to the Syrian people and economy.

According to the World Food Program, since 2011, nearly 13 million Syrians have fled to neighbouring countries and North Africa, while more than 7 million are internally displaced. Meanwhile, nearly 90% of Syrians live below the poverty line (in comparison to one-third of Syrians before the war), and the cost of living has tripled over the past three years.

Against this backdrop, children are one of the most vulnerable groups. According to UNICEF, the crisis in Syria led to a generation of children that have never enrolled in school – and rates of malnutrition, disease and disability have increased sharply over the past decade.

Working through Middle East Revive and Thrive (MERATH), which partners with local churches in Syria, Embrace is supporting three Child Friendly Spaces – in Homs, Damascus and Mhardeh. These spaces provide informal educational and fun activities for children. As safe spaces to learn and play, they reduce the risk of children falling victim to child labour, early marriage or sexual exploitation, and significantly improve children’s psychosocial wellbeing.

Bible reading

People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

Luke 18:15-17

Thought

This short extract demonstrates the value that Jesus places on children. At the time, children were considered to have a low status in society. Jesus contradicts this societal norm by inviting young children into his presence, treating them with compassion and protecting them from others. This reflects the gospel truth that Jesus is accessible to all individuals, regardless of their age or social standing.

Ask yourself: Think of practical ways that we can reflect Christ’s attitude and take time to care for children or those who are marginalised.

Prayer

Loving God,

We thank you that you sent your Son into our broken world to restore us to yourself. We marvel at the mystery of the Incarnation – how the Son of God willingly became a helpless baby and understands exactly what it is like to be a child.

We lift before you the Child Friendly Spaces in Syria. You know each child who attends by name; we pray for your protection upon them and that you would richly bless each and every one. Help those who coordinate the project – may they continue to do so with compassion, wisdom and creativity.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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