How Are the Children?
A Meditation by Rev. Cameron Trimble
“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” (Matthew 18:5)
• • •
Among the Masai people of Africa, renowned for their strength and intelligence, there is a traditional greeting exchanged among warriors: “Kasserian Ingera,” which means, “And how are the children?” This simple question holds profound meaning. It reflects the deep values of the Masai, who measure the health of their community not by wealth or power but by the well-being of their most vulnerable members—the children.
The response to this greeting is equally powerful: “All the children are well.” Even those without children of their own answer with this assurance, because the well-being of the children is understood as a collective responsibility. If the children are safe, nourished, and thriving, it means that peace prevails and the community is living out its purpose. It means that the priorities of protection, care, and nurturing are in place.
What might it look like for us to live in a society that asks, “And how are the children?” as a measure of its success? In our fast-paced, achievement-oriented world, it’s easy to lose sight of the vulnerable among us—not only children but also the poor, the marginalized, the powerless. The Masai remind us that a community’s strength lies not in its wealth or power but in its care for those who cannot care for themselves.
Jesus modeled this same priority in his teachings, welcoming children and lifting up the lowly as central to the Kin-dom of God. He didn’t measure greatness by status or power but by humility, service, and love. To ask, “And how are the children?” is to ask whether our actions reflect those same values. Are we building communities where every child—and every vulnerable person—is safe, valued, and loved?
The Masai remind us that when the children are well, life is good. Peace prevails. And when we prioritize the care of the powerless, we nurture the next generation and live into the fullness of our shared humanity.
How are we contributing to the well-being of those around us, especially the most vulnerable? How are we creating spaces of safety, nourishment, and growth in our families, our neighborhoods, and our world?
We are in this together,
Cameron
Reflection Questions
In your community or family, who are the “children”—the vulnerable ones who need care and protection?
How does your faith call you to prioritize the well-being of others, especially the powerless?
What changes might you make in your daily life to contribute to a world where “all the children are well”?
A Prayer for the Day
A Prayer for the Children
Loving God,
You call us to care for the most vulnerable among us.
Teach us to ask, “And how are the children?”
And to live in ways that nurture their safety and well-being.
Help us to see the powerless and to act with compassion and courage.
May our lives reflect Your love,
And may we create a world where all children are well.
Amen.
Spiritual Practice
Asking the Question
Take time to reflect on the question, “And how are the children?”—both literally and symbolically. Consider the children in your life, your community, and the world. Are their needs being met? Are they safe, nourished, and thriving? Reflect on how you can advocate for their well-being through your time, resources, or voice. Then, expand the question to include others who may be vulnerable or powerless in your community—the elderly, the marginalized, or those experiencing poverty or hardship.
As you carry this question in your heart, think about specific actions you can take to contribute to their well-being. Perhaps you can volunteer with a local organization, support a family in need, or write to your representatives about policies that protect children or vulnerable populations. Small gestures of kindness, like offering encouragement to a struggling parent or mentoring a young person, can make a lasting difference.
Let this practice remind you that asking, “And how are the children?” is not just a reflection of care but a call to action. In prioritizing the well-being of the most vulnerable, we create a world where peace, safety, and love prevail—where all the children are well.
Upcoming Events That Might Be of Interest…
January 9, 2025, 12pm ET - What Does the TikTok Ban Mean for Churches, Faith Leaders, and Digital Ministry? Register here.
January 12, 2025, 3-4:30pm ET - Join me for a FREE conversation on “Progressive Islam – Universal Values vs. the Politics of Human Rights – What’s the Difference Between a Progressive Muslim and Other Muslims?” with Ani Zonneveld. Register here.
February 6, 7-8pm ET - Join my conversation “Mindful Healing: Tools For Inner Balance and Wellbeing” with Rev. Dr. Isa Gucciardi. Register here.
February 11, 2025 - Diana Butler Bass and I will be geeking out together in an online event about the state of the world (post-inauguration). We are still putting the details together. For now, mark your calendars.
July 20-25, 2025 - The Art of Wilding: A 5-Day Expedition in Wyoming for Women Leaders. Click here to learn more.
August 11, 2025, 2pm ET - Dr. Andrew Root and I will be hosting a 6 part series on Spirituality in the Secular Age based on his research. The dates are August 11, 18, September 8, 15, and October 6, 13. Mark your calendars! More on this soon.
October 15-18, 2025 - Converging 2025: Sing Truth Conference (all musicians invited!) at Northwest Christian Church in Columbus, OH. Mark your calendars for now. More info is coming.
Recently, I drafted a Strategic Framework for Congregations as we move into the coming years of increased authoritarianism around the world. If interested, you can download it here.