As pastor of a church in Cochabamba,  I know of no ministry more important than ministry to our children.  This is no different for families. According to the international organization “Save The Families,” in the last decade alone, more than 1.5 million children have been killed during military conflicts.  Millions more have been injured.  One of every 200 children in our world has been psychologically affected by war.   That’s ten million children around the world.

Much of the damage has resulted from the approximately one hundred million landmines that have been planted in sixty countries.  These mines are often planted in areas frequented by children – schools, playgrounds, fields – and, with their natural curiosity, children are more likely to explore areas where mines are laid.  More than 26,000 people are killed or maimed by landmines each year.

Parents, churches and schools, where our children should be the safest, have planted landmines that maim and mangle the souls and personalities of our children.

Edward Moats of Belleair Beach, Florida wrote the following in the 28 May, 1998 edition of USA Today, “Will somebody help me save my son?  My son is two years old and is a reflection of complete innocence.  His vulnerability to this harsh, violent, ignorant and uncaring world just rips my heart apart.  He knows nothing of the killing within the schools that are supposed to prepare children for the world.  He knows nothing of the abuse that happens within the homes of children just his age.  As he plays with his toys, he is oblivious of the tragedies that occur every day across the country.  And as he clutches his blanket, sleeping soundly, dreaming of the mommy and daddy who love him, he has no idea of the complete social and moral decay of our country.  Does anyone care anymore?  Will someone please, please help me save my son?”

A Catholic educator stated, “Give me a child until he is seven, and I don’t what you do with him the rest of his life.”  According to Stand For Children, “Research on brain development is clear that the first three years are critical to a child’s future success.”  Psychologist Dr. Paul Meier said, “It is my firm belief that approximately 85% of one’s adult personality is formed by the time he is 6 years old.”

Many of us adults are primarily interested in our personal rights, enjoyment and entitlements that we ignore our most important privilege and responsibility – to unselfishly model godly characteristics that will become the life patterns for our growing children.

None of us are perfect as individuals – nor are our marriages perfect.  As we work together to maintain our love and a strong marriage, our homes will be a good environment for growing and happy children.