A Different Tree

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:22-32

“Mom,” called Miles, “is it okay if Dad and I take a hike before supper?” Mom agreed, so off they went. They were spending a week at a lake, and Miles loved hiking with his dad. Today he had an important question. “People can’t tell that we’re Christians just by looking at us, can they?” he asked.

“Well, not by our physical appearance, but maybe by looking at our lives. The way we live might give them a clue.” Dad glanced around. “See that sand dune with all the trees on it?” he asked. “Does any one tree catch your eye?”

“Um…oh, I know!” Miles pointed. “That one over there. The one growing sideways on the slope.”

Dad nodded. “You picked out that tree because it’s different. And people will often be able to see that you’re different too.”

“But how?” asked Miles. “I’m not very big yet—I’m only ten!”

“That tree isn’t very big either,” answered Dad, “but it’s special, and you are too. Jesus has made you a new person. You can show others how He’s changed you in your attitude toward them. When you treat others in a way that’s patient, kind, and considerate, you’re showing the difference He’s made in your life.”

“Oh, yeah,” said Miles thoughtfully. “Are we different in any other ways?”

“Well, sometimes our activities should be different from those of our friends,” said Dad. “When we make church a priority over other weekend activities, or decide not to go along with something we know is wrong or unwise, others can see that we’re different.”

“I think I get it,” said Miles. “If I live differently because I trust in Jesus, other kids will notice, right?”

“That’s the idea,” said Dad. “If they ask you about it, let them know that Jesus makes the difference in your life. But even if nobody notices, He still does, and that’s most important.”

“Yeah.” Miles nodded. “Hey! Should we be getting back to camp? I saw Mom taking out steaks for supper!”

“Yes, we should,” said Dad. “I need to fire up the grill!” Deborah S. Marett

How About You?

Can others see that you’re different? Do your actions and attitude show that you’re a Christian? If you trust in Jesus, He has made you a new person. When you live that out, others will be able to see the change He’s made in your life. Let others see the difference Jesus makes in you.

Today’s Key Verse:
2 Corinthians 5:17 If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation… all things have become new. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Be different for Jesus