My friend Rich Dixon is helping me out here, with posts that come just at the right time and just with the right challenge for me. Here’s the latest:

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Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world.
Red, brown, yellow, black, and white,
They are precious in His sight.
Jesus loves the little children of the world.

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In 2013, Becky and I invited people on a 500-mile bike tour.

We wanted the miles to count, so we asked who needed our support. People we trust connected us with PROJECT RESCUE and a HOME OF HOPE that serves 22 kids rescued from human trafficking.

Since 2013, the FREEDOM TOUR community has contributed more than a quarter-million dollars to help those kids live and grow in a safe, nurturing environment.

22 children. Born in a brothel. Now living with hope and freedom.

Why did you pick those particular children?

I get that question a lot. Why not choose a location closer to home? With so many needs, why pick faceless kids halfway around the world?

It’s true – we can’t show their little faces because they’re in a dangerous, politically sensitive area. It might have been easier and more convenient to connect with someone a bit closer to home.

But whenever someone asks, “Why those kids?” I think to myself, “Why NOT those kids?”

Each of our 22 children is a child of God, made in His image.

Jesus loves the little children…

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You and I are children of God, too. Made in His image, loved so much that He sent His one and only Son to bring us home.

Maybe we forget. Maybe we’re feeling isolated, or angry, or frightened about an uncertain future. Maybe we’re overwhelmed by the big numbers. Or confused by mixed messages from medical experts and political leaders.

You and I and our 22 kids, we’re all children of God.

Jesus loves the little children…

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This is Jon again. Tomorrow, you’ll read about my response to Rich and the 22 children.