A New Addition

Bible Reading: MATTHEW 19:13-15; 1 JOHN 4:7-16

Macey and her younger sister, Rachel, looked curiously at Dad when he cleared his throat. “Your mother and I have a surprise for you,” he told them. Macey immediately hoped they were getting a new flat-screen TV, while Rachel envisioned a trip to Disneyland.

Mom clasped Dad’s hand. “We’re going to have a baby,” she said, smiling.

“Really?” Rachel said as she jumped up and down excitedly.

“You’ve got to be kidding!” wailed Macey.

Mom and Dad were surprised by her response. “We thought you’d be happy,” said Mom. “You enjoy playing with our friends’ babies when they come over.”

“That’s different!” said Macey. “They’re not around all the time. Will I have to change diapers? And babysit when I’d rather be doing other stuff? Everything will be different with a baby around!”

“That’s true,” said Mom, “but I’m sure we all have plenty of love to share.”

Princess, one of the family’s two cats, jumped up into Macey’s lap and purred happily as the girl stroked her fur. Tiger, the older cat, lay napping nearby, curled into a ball. Looking at his daughter and the young cat, Dad smiled. “Do you remember when Princess came here as a tiny kitten?” he asked. “And do you remember how Tiger reacted when we brought her into the house?”

“Yeah,” said Macey. “Tiger didn’t like it much at first because she invaded his territory, but they soon became good friends.” Macey hesitated as she thought about what her father was trying to show her. “So you think I’ll like having a new brother or sister once the baby gets here?”

Mom and Dad both nodded. “You’ll have several months to get used to the idea,” said Dad. “In the meantime, let’s remember that every child is precious to Jesus, just like we are, and ask Him to help us all greet our new family member with love and joy when he or she gets here.”

“Well, okay,” said Macey doubtfully. “What will we name the baby? I hope it’s a boy.” She grinned a little when she noticed her parents’ smiles. “I guess I’m getting a little used to the idea already.” EDWIN J. HORTON

How About You?

Does a baby brother or sister need your love? Or maybe an older brother or sister? Or a new kid at school? Jesus loves everyone. He even took time to hold little children and talk to them during His time on earth. He knows that children are a gift from God. When brothers or sisters try your patience, remember that Jesus loves all of you very much. Trust Him to help you love them too.

Today’s Key Verse:
ROMANS 15:7 ACCEPT ONE ANOTHER, THEN, JUST AS CHRIST ACCEPTED YOU, IN ORDER TO BRING PRAISE TO GOD. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Accept one another.