Reaching Children for Jesus
Our 4/14 Window Global Initiative
For more than 15 years Christ-followers worldwide have talked about “the 10/40 Window,” the section of the globe in which the most non-Christians live. That window refers to the region between 10 degrees latitude south and 40 degrees north of the Equator. It stretches westward from Senegal, West Africa, across North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, to the eastern coast of Japan.
Today God is attracting our attention to a new window as people committed to spreading the impact of the Gospel: “the 4/14 Window.” This window refers to children and youth from age 4 to 14. That season of life is described as the most profoundly formative period of all. Worldviews, perspectives, values, beliefs, lifelong behaviors, and a sense of personal significance: All are shaped—positively or negatively—during those years.
Consider these perspective-shaping realities: An estimated 40% of the developing world lives in run-down slums and shantytowns. About 35,000 kids under age 5 die each day from malnourishment. About 10 million children have been forced into prostitution. About 100 million kids live on the streets. How do you suppose such conditions affect the beliefs and behavior of children?
Here is the good news: As the chart shows, children and youth in this age range are also more receptive to spiritual input and development than they will likely be for the rest of their lives. Approximately 8 of every 10 people who placed their faith in Jesus Christ did so when between the ages of 4 and 14. That was true of me. How about you?
The two windows intersect significantly. Almost 70% of our world’s 4/14ers live within the 10/40 Window: an estimated 833,378,750 kids! The 10/40 Window is the region with the most need and opportunity. The 4/14 Window is the season of greatest openness and malleability. The “4/14 Window Global Initiative” process is this: Collaborate closely to transform and mobilize the most receptive who live where the need is most oppressive. The goal: God glorified in those children now and throughout their adulthood.
The Mission to Children has focused primarily on this age group in this region for 40 years! Because of this—and especially our emphasis on cultivating Christlike character in children, youth, and the adults who influence them—we have recently been invited to fulfill a strategic role in this 4/14 Window Global Initiative.
Will you pray for God’s plentiful blessing as we work alongside passionate ministry partners to help transform these young ones into lifelong Christ-followers and transformers of others? All is vain without His blessing. Will you join us? We need you.
