A Special Gift

Bible Reading: Philemon 1:1-7

“Mom, can I take a few of these to Mrs. Henderson after school tomorrow?” asked Allison as she and her mother finished making cookies one evening.

“That’s a good idea,” said Mom. Their next-door neighbor couldn’t walk well and didn’t get out much, so Allison would often stop at her house after school to say hello. Sometimes her friend Liz joined them too.

The next afternoon, Allison ran up Mrs. Henderson’s front steps and rang the bell. “Mrs. Henderson, I’m here!” she called as she opened the door.

“Hello, Allison,” Mrs. Henderson said. She was in her favorite chair with an old quilt wrapped around her. “It’s so cool and rainy today, so I’m all bundled up.”

“You look warm and comfortable,” said Allison with a smile. “Would you like me to fix you a cup of tea? I have a couple of homemade cookies too.”

Mrs. Henderson beamed. “Yes—thank you! That sounds lovely.”

As she sipped her tea, Mrs. Henderson asked Allison about her friend Liz. “Oh, she couldn’t come today because she has flute lessons,” replied Allison with a sigh. “She’s so talented! She plays both the piano and the flute—and she can sing too. I can’t do any of that stuff! I’m no good at anything.”

“Why, Allison, that’s not true!” Mrs. Henderson replied. “You have a very special gift—the ability to make others feel good. This was such a dreary day for me until you came. You’re like a little bit of sunshine!” She smiled at Allison. “You remind me of Philemon in the Bible. The apostle Paul wrote that Philemon refreshed those who knew him. You do that too, Allison. You point others to Jesus by your kindness and thoughtfulness. You show God’s love in the way you live. That’s one of the very best gifts you could possibly have.”

Allison gave Mrs. Henderson a hug. “I’m glad if I help make other people feel refreshed,” she said, “but I never would have thought of that as a special gift from God.” She smiled. “Thank you for telling me.” -Linda M. Weddle

How About You?

Do you have a caring attitude toward others? Do you take time to simply be with them, talk with them, and listen to them? If you do, it’s no doubt refreshing for them to have you as a friend. Look around. Ask God to help you find someone you can encourage with your friendship. He’s given you the gift of His love and kindness so you can share it with others.

Today’s Key Verse:
Philemon 1:7 Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Be friendly and thoughtful