Rejoice! The Lost is Found!!

Recently we have seen three precious children and one teenager, of their own volition, come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.  Having trusted Christ as my Savior and Lord at the age of five, I get especially excited when I see children choose to follow Christ.  Praise the Lord!

And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them. (Mark 10:13-16)

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. (Romans 10:17)

Now, my question is, why do born again adults get more excited over a teen or another adult coming to Christ for salvation than a child?  What would it say to a young child if adults were excited, rejoicing, clapping, encouraging, and caring when a child is saved? I remember my Dad’s response to me when I rose from my knees at the living room couch, walked into his study and told him, “Dad, I just got saved!”  He hugged me, rejoiced and said, “That’s great, Son! Tell me about it!”  My Dad did what every believer should do!  Why?  Just read Luke 15.

I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. (15:7)

Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents (15:10).

How marvelous to think that a child has all their life to live for Christ, lay up treasures in Heaven, and make a difference for Christ in preparation for the Bema!  Their minds are like a sponge when it comes to Scripture memory.  Their hearts are tender toward the knowledge and ways of God.  They don’t have all the clutter and baggage of an adult.  They just have simple faith to believe in God’s Word!  May their tribe increase!!

One final thought, being very transparent with you.  When a crowd of believers are silent and seemingly uncaring when a child turns to Christ, I must say, “I’m glad you were not around when I got saved.”  I love, to this day, being around believers who love the Lord, are connected with Him through the Word, prayer, witnessing, and serving, and are joyful in the Lord!!

My wife came to Christ for salvation at the age of seven, thanks to her born again parents as well as her devoted, soul-winning Sunday School teacher.  I love to watch Denise respond to a child’s salvation as well as watch her lead a child to Christ!  She has not lost the wonder of it all!!  As a matter of fact, she celebrates her 50^th spiritual birthday in September and is planning a backyard party for all our neighbors!

So, how will you respond when a child in your church or your own child or grandchild, or a child in your neighborhood is born again?  If you need a hint just look toward heaven!