I was expecting the usual…nothing, played, went to my friends, etc.
I was a little surprised, but not shocked, at one boys answer.
“I got down on the ground.”
I asked “What do you mean you got down on the ground?” He said “the police.” I said “What do you mean the police?” He then explained how the police came and told him and a few others to get down on the ground.
This boy is 12.
How old were you the first time the police told you to get down on the ground?
I am not shocked because I know the neighborhood he lives in. Fortunately, he was not the one causing the problems and the police let him go.
Many children live in these neighborhoods where it is common for police to be called out. This is how they grow up. Poverty, drugs, crime, police and jail are a constant part of their lives. Many even have a family member or a friend who is in jail.
What should we do?
- Ignore the situation and let the police take care of it?
- Let the government handle it?
No. The answer is in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Our job is to go. To go find these children and tell them about the good news of Jesus.
Thank you for your prayer and support. There are many children but not many helpers. If you want to get involved, please let me know. We can use your help.