through heaven's eyes

“Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:4

Children are the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Maybe they are here too on earth. After all, in many countries, children are considered a precious commodity and even have a price on their head. Yet this sad truth is a far cry from what Jesus had in mind.

Human trafficking, an industry built solely on the exploitation of others through means of slavery. There are about 27 million people in slavery across the world; and of these, an estimated 1.2 million children are trafficked each year. These children are being forced into hard labour, military service, begging and worst of all, prostitution. Human trafficking is currently the fastest growing industry, generating over seven billion dollars a year.

25th March 2007 marked the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade in 1807. However, this victory was only won after a long and hard fight by one of the most renowned abolitionists in the world – William Wilberforce.

In celebration of the 200 years past, the film Amazing Grace, was released. Amazing Grace documents the life of William Wilberforce, and how one man struggled to change the world. William Wilberforce was born in Hull in 1759, and at the mere age of 21, he was elected into the House of Commons. In 1784, Wilberforce embarked on a life-changing spiritual journey and was faced with a decision – to serve the Lord, or to continue his political career. Under the guidance of a clergyman, John Newton, Wilberforce resolved to dedicate his life wholly to God, whilst serving in politics. This newfound faith sparked his passion for the abolition of slavery and the reformation of society.

Wilberforce introduced many bills year after year, all of which were defeated. Yet through his tenacity and determination, together with the support of petitions signed by the British citizens, the bill was passed in 1807 with a large majority. Later in 1833, just before his death, a bill for the abolition of slavery across all British colonies was passed.

It’s been 200 years, and it’s hard to believe that modern-day slavery exists. It is even more difficult to grasp the idea that it is one of the most flourishing trades in the world. To so many people, the idea of slavery remains a thing of the past. If this is the case, then how has the world come to this state? We need to raise awareness among our family, our friends and our society, that slavery is still a very real problem in this world. We can join in the fight against human trafficking through signing petitions, joining campaigns and raising funds.

William Wilberforce was only 21 when he entered the House of Commons, and as Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 4:12, “Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.” We are never too young to start changing the world for God.

Jeremiah was called to the Lord’s service, and he said, ‘I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.’ But the Lord told him “Do not say ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you.” (Jeremiah 1:4-8) Even before we were born, God had already set us apart to do great things for him. We may still be children in the eyes of man, but God has already equipped us to do the impossible from the day we were born.

And one question now remains – where are the William Wilberforces of today?