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June-July 1999 The Sabbath Sentinel
Editoral . . .
Children, An Education in Innocence
by Royce Mitchell, Jr., Interim Editor
The qualities of a child
are qualities that Our Lord, Jesus Christ pointed out to us that
we needed to adopt. He pointed this out in the context of the
disciples seeking who would be the greatest in the kingdom of
God. We can read about this in Matthew 18, beginning in verse
1. Here's what Jesus said, "At the same time came the disciples
unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of
heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set
him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you,
Except ye be converted, and become as little children,
ye shall not enter into the kingdom of
heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as
this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of
heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name
receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones
which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone
were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the
depth of the sea." (KJV).
The warning that the disciples might not enter the kingdom of
heaven is one that should startle us into action. We too are
disciples of Jesus Christ. We became a disciple when we accepted
the calling that came to us from the Father, through the
auspices of Christ's sacrifice. Christ gave us a part of that
criteria when He told us about the trait we would exhibit that
would let others know that we are His disciple. That trait is
love. It is the first trait listed as a fruit of the Spirit
(Galatians 5:22-23). It is also one trait that is demonstrated
by children.
Yet, in this day and time, being like a child is one thing that
could cause us great problems. How can we reconcile these words
of Christ with our current societal ills, without being run
over? What changes can we make in our lives that would allow us
to incorporate those attributes of a child? What are the
specific changes that we need to make if we are to become like a
little child? When should we expect to see these characteristics
manifest themselves in us? Which trait of a child do we already
see manifested in the changes God promised to make in us? These
are all questions we need to ask ourselves, as we examine
ourselves to see if we are in the faith.
This issue of The Sabbath Sentinel has been largely devoted to
the insight that can be garnered from children. Sarah Roney, an
18 year old living in Wisconsin, submitted an article that puts
into words her feelings after the Littleton Colorado
shootings. The love she has for mankind comes shining through in
her concern about the path her generation has chosen.
Also in this issue, we have the winners of the Bible Sabbath
Association scholarships and the runners-up. These youth
discuss plans they have for their future. It is our hope that
you will find their optimism encouraging and enlightening, a
look into the heart of a child.
Mandie Nickels, who is a 14 year old Sabbath keeping Christian,
provides more insight with her articles about the use of words,
and about being a light in a dark world. Her love and concern
for her friends and acquaintances comes shining through clearly.
Of course, articles about the Sabbath continue in this issue. We
never want to lose sight of the wonderful gift our Creator God
gave us at the founding of this world. Also, we hope to include
articles that will help us use this wonderful day even more
effectively, in the future. So, enjoy this month's articles! If
you have any comments, positive or negative, or recommendations
for articles that you would like to see, please feel free to
contact us at the address on the facing page, or by the email
address listed as well!
TSS
June - July 1999 The Sabbath Sentinel
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