Not Home. Come Home.

2025 Lenten Reflections

SHELTER FOR THE VULNERABLE: 

AT RISK YOUTH

Jesus said,
‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’”

Matthew 19:14

Illustration by Eunice Sunmie Derksen

HOME is more than a structure, it is a place where the vulnerable find shelter from the storms they face. As followers of Christ, we are called to invite others into this deep knowledge of safety, warmth, and belonging to those who have none—especially children and at-risk youth.

Biblical and Theological Grounding

Scripture consistently underscores the importance of protecting and nurturing children. In the Old Testament, God is portrayed as a defender of the vulnerable: "He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you" (Deuteronomy 10:18). The Psalms echo this charge, depicting God as "a father to the fatherless, a defender of widows" who "sets the lonely in families" (Psalm 68:5-6). Recognizing children as divine blessings calls for an environment where they can flourish physically, emotionally, and spiritually (Ps 127:3).

Jesus exemplifies a special regard for children. He welcomed them, saying, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" (Matthew 19:14).

Theologically, the care for vulnerable children reflects the very character of God. It is not merely a moral obligation, but a manifestation of Divine Love working through humanity. The Epistle of James emphasizes that "pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress" (James 1:27), indicating that true faith is demonstrated through advocacy and coming alongside the vulnerable youth. Caring for these children is never convenient, but it is essential and non-negotiable when it comes to faith.

Home by Amber Eldredge

Followers of Jesus Have Always Done this Work.

Historically, the Christian church has been at the forefront of caring for vulnerable children and youth, embodying the biblical mandate to "defend the cause of the fatherless" (Isaiah 1:17). In the early church, believers distinguished themselves by rescuing and nurturing abandoned children, integrating them into their communities as a testament to transformative Christian love. Early church documents required that candidates for leadership be known as "lovers of orphans," reflecting a community deeply committed to the welfare of the young and defenseless.

As Christianity became more established, monastic communities played a pivotal role in establishing orphanages and educational institutions, offering shelter and instruction to those without guardians. The Reformation Era brought renewed emphasis on family and education, with Reformers advocating for schools accessible to all children – including the impoverished and orphaned – laying the groundwork for modern movements that care for at-risk children and youth.

What is Our Anglican Call To Action?

The Book of Common Prayer includes petitions for the well-being of children and the strengthening of family bonds, and offers recognition of the home as a microcosm of the church where faith is lived out daily. The stability and support that are found in a godly home provide a foundation from which children can explore their gifts and callings, confident in the knowledge of God's steadfast love.

But what if a child or a teen does not have a home that is safe? Are they to be left abandoned and adrift? Who will care for them? The government? Non-profits? The local church?

The biblical mandate to love and protect children calls the Anglican family to action. This includes creating safe environments, advocating for children's rights, offering support to families in need, and mentoring youth. Our commitment to care for these children physically, emotionally, as well as spiritually, reflects the heart of God, manifests His kingdom on earth, brings people to faith, and stands as a witness to whether we truly believe what we say we believe.

PRAY

For the Care of Children, Book of Common Prayer

Almighty God, heavenly Father, you have blessed us with the joy and care of children: Give us calm strength and patient wisdom so to train them, that they may love all that is true, and pure, and lovely, and of good report, following the example of their Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

GIVE

Would you consider the Matthew 25 Initiative for almsgiving? As the justice and mercy initiative of the ACNA, we are committed to equipping and sustaining the people of God in their service to the vulnerable. Funding we receive this Lent will go towards creating pathways for churches and small ministries to launch new initiatives to walk alongside the vulnerable and marginalized.