Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
—Matthew 19:14

I’ve done without one for 25 years. Too stuffy (pretentious?) for my tastes.

But here’s why I bought a clerical collar.

My church has a mission outpost, now its own 501(c)(3) right in the middle of Olathe. This site offers meals, hygiene products, ELC classes, Boys & Girls Club and more.

This past week, ICE has been active in the neighborhood. Two people were arrested next door. There were agents looking in our classroom windows, unmarked cars idling in our parking lot, and I even watched a high-speed chase involving 10 law enforcement vehicles, right outside the building.

We serve a large, diverse community, and fear is everywhere — even among those who are U.S. citizens. The staff here has an excellent plan in place in the case of any kind of raid, but suddenly the craziness we’ve been watching on TV has come front and center.

So I bought a clerical collar just in case. Just in case anyone needs a gentle “come to Jesus” session.

Here’s what I mean:

Remember when he said “let the children come to me?” He then admonished his disciples not to be a hindrance.

I want my clerical collar to be a sign that this is a sacred space. That any place where children receive love is a sacred place. Holy ground.

If a tiny piece of plastic around my neck can remind people of that, whoever they may be, I’ll consider it an honest day’s work.

You don’t have to wear a collar to be such a sign.

It occurs to me that Wednesday night is Ash Wednesday. Find a service near you and get ashes imposed on your forehead.

Then, go out to eat, go to the grocery store, or even visit your local mission outpost and say hi.

Perhaps you can be a reminder of Christ’s message. Make this Lent a season where the most vulnerable amongst us know they are surrounded by people who love them…

and a God that calls

all of us children.

Have a great week,

Mitch