Our word for today is "messing". I’ve heard this word used all my life. It refers to interfering or negatively manipulating something. I consider it somewhat a folksy expression, like "he’s over there messing with something". There’s a TV ad currently running where an attorney references someone who is "messing with their cell phone" and causes a traffic accident. It’s a catchy word due to its no frills, homespun nature.

With that said, if you are a parent, you certainly don’t want anyone messing with your children. This is an inborn, undeniable trait in humans and even found in nature. If you need any clarification, just approach an animal that has youngsters and see the lack of hospitality extended. I have frequently encountered a goose with goslings in tow on the golf course thus I’m speaking from experience. We love our children and feel an obligation to protect them and always represent their best interests.

Reminder here that we all are children of God. We have all sung: "Red, yellow, black and white we all are precious in His sight". Have you ever thought how God must feel when we mistreat or "mess" with one of his children? With all the division and hate that exists in the world today, that reality seems to have been overlooked or forgotten. There is more at stake here than just maintaining a civil society. As followers of Jesus, we are called and committed to respect God’s sovereignty and His family which includes all his children.

Our greatest and most foundational commandment is to "love God with all our heart, soul and mind, and to love our neighbor as yourself". All and every teaching that follows is founded and based upon this directive. Yes, it’s hard sometimes to love those who have wronged us but remember that pleasing God should be at the forefront of our lives. And yes you guessed it, that involves not "messing" with God’s children. The love folks will have for each of us after we are gone will be determined by the love we show others while we are here.