Little Lions

Early this week, I was reading the Gospel of Luke chapter 9, where the disciples were arguing about who among them was the greatest.  Jesus knew exactly what was going on, so He did something unexpected. He brought a little child to His side and said,

“Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the One who sent me. For whoever is least among you—this one is the greatest.” 

Jesus always flipped the script.  He didn’t elevate status, strength, or titles.  He elevated humility.  He elevated the overlooked and the unexpected.  And He elevated children. 

After all these years of kids and youth ministry, Heidi and I have read this passage, preached it, and quoted it more times than we can count. But this morning, it felt alive in a fresh way.  I didn’t just read the words, I saw little faces.  I saw the kids at our upside-down, joy-filled ROAR Church in Zambia.  I could hear their laughter and their worship.  I thought about how much we treasure them and how Jesus does too!  

Even our littlest lions are Rising above unimaginable challenges with resilience.  They’re Running toward identity and purpose. And they are Roaring in ways that will echo for generations.  We are simply grateful to have a front-row seat. 

UNICEF and The World Bank report that almost 1/3 of the global population is under the age of 18.  That’s more than 2 billion people!  And in Zambia, over half of the population is under 18.  At Orchard, we take seriously the privilege and calling we have to invest in kids and youth.  They are highly valued; they’re always welcome, and they know it!  And when we welcome them, we are welcoming Jesus Himself.  Which means this beautiful promise is also true:  Jesus attends ROAR Church! 

Lions, be good to the littlest and youngest ones in your life.  Your mentoring, your time, and your attention means more than you know.  Honor them, and you honor Jesus.