I have heard it said before that if a child has not been exposed to the gospel of Jesus Christ before the age of 18, there is an 85% chance they will not accept Him, later on in life. That, to me, is a very haunting statistic. Having the opportunity to minister to children, I have seen the awesome power and truth to the word. Working over at Mayor Wrights in downtown Honolulu has shown me the need for a positive role model in a childs life.

"But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him if a millstone where hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea." Matthew 18:6. Christ spoke about the importance and special characteristics of children. Many of these children are exposed to the evil of this world at such an early age. Kids play the role of the adult, taking care of younger siblings; yet they themselves are only a year or two older than that.

I started hanging out with many of these kids from mayor writes last year, and i have seen the loving arms of Christ wrapped around them. These kids are rough around the edges, but when you play catch with a football, or throw down some Pogs, the laughter and joy bring the child back to childhood.

I can see that Christ has a special place for kids. No matter how loud, wild, and often confusing they can be, I believe that it is our responsibility to show that love of Christ to them. Many of these kids will not see it from anybody else.

This past week or so, I know that God has been showing me this. I want to encourage you and ask that you would stop and consider the 85% and Matthew 18:6. That has been convicting to me and has also shown me the character of Christ.