Faith Reflections

Touching What God Treasures

”If anyone causes one of these little ones – those who believe in me – to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large milestone hung round their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” - Mathew 18:6

This passage reveals the fierce protective heart of Christ over children. In a culture where children possessed little social status, Jesus Christ placed a child in the midst of His disciples and used that child to teach profound truths about the kingdom. In this passage, He issued one of the strongest warnings recorded in the Gospels: those who harm, exploit or cause children to stumble place themselves under severe divine judgment.

The phrase little ones extend beyond age. It includes the vulnerable, the dependent and those who trust God with childlike faith. Yet children are certainly at the centre of Christ’s concern. They are significant and precious in His sight. They are welcomed into His presence, blessed by His hands and entrusted to the care of families and communities.

Today, this passage speaks with painful relevance. Across Nigeria and other parts of the world, children have been abducted from schools, communities and places that should have been safe. Many have endured fear, displacement and trauma. Families have wept through sleepless nights, uncertain whether they would ever see their children again. Such acts are not merely crimes against humanity, they are offenses against those whom God treasures.

Jesus’ warning reminds us that divine justice is not indifferent. Human courts may fail. Criminals may evade accountability, making communities feel powerless. Yet Scripture declares that God sees. The Judge of all the earth does not overlook violence against the innocent. Those who prey upon children may escape earthly consequences for a season, but they cannot escape the gaze of the righteous God.

This text also challenges believers to reflect on their own responsibilities. Harm is not limited to physical violence. Neglect, exploitation, abuse and silence in the face of injustice also wound the little ones Christ loves. Followers of Jesus are called to become protectors, advocates and defenders of children.
The church must therefore refuse indifference. We are called to pray for vulnerable children, support affected families, advocate for justice and work toward safer communities. To stand with children is to stand with Christ Himself.

As we meditate on this passage, let us remember that the severity of Christ’s warning flows from the depth of His love. The One who welcomes children into His arms will also defend them against those who seek to harm them. His words are both a comfort to the oppressed and a solemn warning to the oppressor.

Reflection Question
Are there ways in which silence, indifference or inaction can contribute to the suffering of vulnerable children and how might God be calling you to respond differently?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for Your love for children. Protect the vulnerable, comfort grieving families and bring justice where evil has been committed. Make us faithful guardians of those You cherish. Amen.