People
were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch
them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. But when Jesus saw
this, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the little children
come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the
kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive
the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’ And he
took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.
Mark.
10:13–16
Today is World Day of Prayer
which is celebrated in 170 countries around the world. It is a
worldwide movement of Christian women who come together to observe a
common day of prayer. The host country for 2016 World Day of Prayer
is Cuba. The service was written by the women of Cuba who call us to
explore the depth of God's love and accept the realm of God's love as
a little child.
Twenty some years ago I was
fortunate to visit Cuba twice through a Church Women United program,
and then some of you helped host six Cuban women who visited us here
in Michigan. We learned first hand of their abundant love of God and
His children. This year the Cubans are calling us to learn from
children who receive each other openly and do not discriminate. They
ask us to respect children's rights and give them the opportunity to
participate in the life of our church family and community.
God
of Life, we praise you for being present in all generations. We
praise and bring you the dreams of the elderly, the visions of the
young and the wisdom of the children. Hear our prayers and give us
hope, strength and love. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Lois
Poston
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