by Lt. Vincent Cusack
Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven’” (Matthew 19:14, ESV).
What a beautiful portion of scripture this is. People were bringing their children to Jesus, desiring for Him to bless them, when the disciples rebuked them. Jesus responded, “Let them come,” revealing youth are close to His heart and have purpose in His Kingdom.
At the Chicago Midway, Ill., Corps, we offer the same invitation: let them come! The Territorial Priority of Youth stands at the heart of our mission. As the corps officer, along with my wife, Lt. Maria Medina-Cusack, it has been the honor of my life to join God in the spiritual development of youth.
Our corps is a safe haven for young people on the southwest side of Chicago. Currently, we have an afterschool program open year-round, yes even during the Christmas season. I love serving God and the many expressions of our Army, but there is something special and fulfilling about the opportunity to stand at the door of the corps and welcome youth every day into the house of God.
Every young person who comes to our corps brings a different story. Many come from hard circumstances and need a place of light and love. What a blessing it is to be that place. We want each young person to feel loved and encouraged to embrace their purpose and potential as a child of God. This takes many forms from having a safe place to do homework, learning how to play a musical instrument to enjoying a hot meal every day.
But the greatest gift we share is the gospel, the love of Jesus. Words can’t express how satisfying it is to see God working in their lives and watching them grow in confidence, discover their gifts and experience the love of Christ. God is moving in this generation. What an honor it is to be part of this Kingdom work—to witness young lives transformed by God’s love.
So, as Jesus said, “Let them come.”
To learn about becoming an officer, visit salarmycentral.org/candidates
