‘Every child is a blessing’
For many Christians and in other religions as well, we are reminded that our children are gifts from God
The Fiji Sun online page has been flooded with comments in support of a 16-year-old teenager in Beirut, Lebanon.
As the article ‘Lebanese Mother seeks safety for Fijian Son’ has been able to grab support from many Fijians calling on the Fijian Government’s quick action, one would wonder how many more Fijian children could be on Lebanese soil.
A woman has been able to come out and voice her concern as she also has a nephew in Lebanon, who was the son of her brother, a former military officer. It may sound too personal for many women, but then really it’s about these innocent children.
For many Christians, and those in other religions as well, we are reminded that our children are gifts from God. Psalm 127:3 says: “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.”
It would be sad for many women to learn that their husbands did have children in a country they were once deployed to, but then it would also be sad if they did know and were not willing to help.
This has been a sensitive issue that can be personally dealt with or we can all help – whether in prayers or in support. It is about the child, it is about our Fijian children.
During a New Methodist Christian Fellowship Conference last month, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said: “Our constitution, the law of the land guarantees the rights of everyone, the right to a common identity, sense of belonging, freedom of speech and expression and given civil and political socio economic rights, we are building a more inclusive, united society”.
Mr Bainimarama said this while commending the inclusion of children at the church conference.
The 16-year-old boy and his Lebanese mother have been praying for a breakthrough in their life. The mother is only seeking the best for her son, as any mother would.
Some of the comments online are:
“Every child deserves a chance at a decent life. To grow and develop in a safe environment. Whether it be his father’s or mother’s country of birth, he or she has a right to a decent & safe environment to grow in. Please Fiji immigration, bring a son home. He is our people and we are his. He deserves an identity and we have a responsibility to give him that. #BringHimHome.”
“Isa, it’s very touching. If we are to put ourselves in that child’s shoes. It must be very heart breaking when you are not given the freedom and opportunity as everyone else.”
“Living in a place where u know u have origins but they do not recognise you as their own is like a night mare. I humbly plead to the Government to accept the mother’s request for the safety and freedom of the child. This child is one of us.”
“It’s the son of a Fijian warrior who once boldly and bravely represented his nation for peace keeping.” The Gospel of Mark 9:37 reads: “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
There could be more to this story, but we will pray for the best outcome for this child, our Fijian brother and son.