Prayer for the children amongst us

Jesus, in your words and in your actions in the Gospels, you show that you love the children, though many saw them as only an annoyance.   As you blessed the children so many years ago reach down in our day and bless the children.  Hold the children who are brought to adoption agencies and the foster care system into your loving and protective arms.  Protect the innocence of all children.  Come alongside of all children who feel alone, insecure, unwanted, or unloved and bring them into the light of your love and goodness, that they may know You as their refuge and strength and find family in Your church and among Christians. Amen.