Today is the International Day of Non-Violence. Although this day didn’t initiate out of the Christian community, I lift up Jesus Christ as the ultimate model, mentor, and teacher of non-violent behavior. As New Hope Publishers and our parent company look at the issues of human exploitation, we don’t need to look far to see the most violently exploited of all human beings–our children.
Jesus loved children. When his followers turned children away, Jesus insisted the children be brought to him. Jesus instructed His followers to come to Him as little children. No one grieves as deeply as Jesus when children are abused, abandoned, and forgotten. This is why Ron Ruthruff’s book , The Least of These, is so critical to our generation. As advanced as we believe our society to be, we are still prehistoric in our treatment of children.
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While not all of these verses are referring to the age group of children, they are relevant to a non-violent life, and reveal the high regard Jesus had for children.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9 (NRSV)
If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! Matthew 7:11 (NRSV)
Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. Matthew 18:5 (NRSV)
but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” Matthew 19:14 (NRSV)
“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! Matthew 23:37 (NRSV)
But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Luke 6:35 (NRSV)
Before this day is over, between football games, housework, and preparation for Sunday services, take time to pray for children and to consider your own commitment to end violence toward children.
