When Tara Hackney held her newly adopted daughter for the first time, she found herself singing classic songs from her own childhood to soothe her daughter’s cries.

But when singing "Jesus Loves the Little Children,” she realized the lyrics didn’t include her daughter. That moment was the spark that led to her new book, Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World.

In this heartfelt interview, Tara shares how she reimagined the classic song to celebrate the unique and intentional way each child is created. Keep reading to learn how she invites families everywhere to join in spreading the timeless message that every child is perfectly made and perfectly loved.

What inspired you to write Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World?

Tara Hackney: Honestly, writing this book came from the deep well of protective mama love. As I held my newly adopted daughter whose skin did not match my own, I began singing to comfort her cry. I sang classics from my own childhood, but when I arrived at the list of colors in “Jesus Loves the Little Children of the World,” I stopped. There was no brown. And some of the other colors were somewhere on the spectrum between outdated and cringeworthy. This song needed a redo.

Or maybe just tweaking. The heart of the song remained lovely . . . timeless . . . true. Jesus does love the children of the world! And in a world torn by divisiveness and ravaged by racism, the children of the world need to hear that simple message now more than ever.

Almost spontaneously, I began turning words in my mind, searching for a version that would include my daughter. For a version that would include everyone―all the children of the world. Every color, every shade, just exactly as He made.

What is distinctive about your approach?

Tara: The new lyrics include the idea that diversity is an intentional part of the Creator’s grand design. We are all unique because we are handmade by the ultimate Artisan. Scripture tells us that he knits us together in our mothers’ wombs (Psalm 139:13) and that we are his handiwork (Ephesians 2:10). We look the way we do because our Creator took delight in forming us that way. That means you and that means me, made and loved so perfectly.

What do you want readers to take away from your book?

Tara: My hope for this book is that it plants deep into the heart of every child who reads it—or sings it—the seed of truth that they are loved—loved by Jesus, the One who made them just the way they are. My prayer for this book is that the parents, teachers, or grandparents who read it to their little ones would water the seeds with prayer and keep watch with eager expectation. When seeds of truth take root, something beautiful begins to grow.

Is there anything else you would like readers to know about your book?

Tara: I believe this book has the potential to bring healing. I have spoken to many people who have expressed relief or even gratitude for the new inclusive lyrics. Some had been hurt by the original version, while others had felt offended or left out completely. Scripture is clear that Jesus came for the whole world (John 3:16-17). Everyone from here to there, down and up and everywhere. My hope is that when people hear the updated lyrics, they would feel uniquely and personally loved by Jesus.

About the Author

Tara Sanders Hackney

Tara Sanders Hackney

Tara Hackney is the founder of Jesus Loves, a ministry dedicated to recapturing the wonder, exploring the depth, and spreading the good news of the world’s greatest love. She is the author of Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World. A mother of five, Tara lives with her family in North Carolina. To learn more about Tara, visit jesusloves.org.

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About the Book — Updated Lyrics for a New Generation

Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world

Every color, every shade, just exactly as He made

Jesus loves the little children of the world.

—taken from Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World

The classic song “Jesus Loves the Little Children of the World” has been heard in homes and churches for over a century. This fresh adaptation written by Tara Hackney includes three new stanzas for today’s children and families. With the beautiful reminder that all children of the world are “made and loved so perfectly,” these updated lyrics celebrating God’s love will quickly become a favorite in every home. And the colorful interior with images of children from around the world will delight children and parents as they read—or sing—together.

Perfect for:

• A bedtime story and lullaby
• Sunday morning children’s ministry
• Circle time at preschool
• Vacation Bible School
• Singing with your little one anytime!

Get the Book