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Serving God by Serving Children
One of the Lectionary Readings for this week reminds us that Jesus made it clear: when we welcome and care for a child, we are welcoming Him. God calls us to not just love in words but by our actions.
[Jesus said,] “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children,
you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Whoever becomes humble like this child
is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me."
– Matthew 18:3-5 (NRSVUE)
This Word of God is also the message of United Women in Faith’s 2026 A Call to Prayer and Self-Denial Service — “The Future is Now: Invest in Our Children.” The service is designed and written by Carol Burnett in celebration of National Mission Institutions that serve on our behalf to nurture and support children, providing for the most vulnerable and advocating for justice. Children are not just our future—they are God’s precious gifts in the present.
McCurdy Ministries is one of United Women in Faith’s National Mission Institutions. McCurdy Ministries programs offer encouragement, access to education, food, safety, clothing, mentorship, and the belonging of community for children and their families. And we are each invited to welcome children by supporting the work of McCurdy Ministries. As we share God’s love through our prayers, time, gifts, and advocacy we contribute to sustaining this space where children are empowered in body, mind, and spirit.
How will you welcome and serve a child?
In an attitude of openness, accept this prayer offered by Carol Burnett.
Gracious God, we thank you for the gift of children and for the joy they bring into
our lives. We ask for your wisdom and strength today as we reflect on how we
can better serve the youngest among us. Help us to be faithful stewards of their
well-being, advocating for policies and practices that nurture them into the fullness of who you created them to be. Stir in us a deep compassion and urgency to take action, bolstering the missions that bring them hope. Move us to embrace
your call to give of ourselves to nurture all children, especially those pushed to
the margins. May your love guide our actions, and may your justice flow through
our hearts. Amen.
Ellen Lipsey
McCurdy Board of Trustees
From College Station, Texas
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