Author Darlene J. Conard

 My friend’s daughter at twelve months tiny feet made way to a broken Darlene during a prayer meeting. With my forehead pressed tight on the fold of my tear-soaked arms, on my knees at a chair, her feather light hand rested on my back as she in her own way prayed for me. No one influenced my arising faith like she did. Ellie did what she knew to do. It makes sense when Jesus says, “Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3 KJV

In the book of John 6:1-13 the remainder of a young man’s food became a feast for the five thousand who followed Jesus. Five loaves of bread and two fish, wow! Great is our God! A mustard seed is a tiny amount of faith that goes a long way!

Children’s hearts are fragile, yet quick to forgive. I experienced many heartbreaks as I volunteered in my hometown community center. Children in and out of the facility came bearing unnecessary hardships daily.

One day after school, a child sat at the table to enjoy the meal I prepared for him. Bowing his head, he said blessing then began eating. “Miss Darlene,” he said taking bites of his sandwich, “where does the food come from that we eat here.”

“It’s donated by pantries; grants are written and sometimes stores give food.”

Daylen remained until closing time. He made his way to my desk with his backpack in hand.” Miss Darlene can anyone donate?”

“Sure honey.” He slipped his hand in his bookbag pulling out a meal packet given to him at school. “I want to donate this.”

“Daylen you don’t have to do that. It’s ok. We will receive more donations.”

“I want to make sure that someone else has food. I know what it’s like to be hungry.” Pain shot through my heart. “That’s so sweet of you. Thank you for this Daylen.”

“You’re welcome, see you tomorrow, Miss Darlene. Have a good day. The moment he walked out the door I rushed to turn off the lights bursting in tears. Conviction overpowered the root of bitterness growing from a heartful situation I encountered.

Childlike faith has a tremendous influence. Jesus said not to turn them away or offend them. (Matthew 18:6,7 19:14) Offend as in neglect, cutting them down with negativity, or correcting without compassion but with despise.

“Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.”

  Children can teach us in so many wa

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