A Zoo Full of People

Bible Reading: Proverbs 11:9-13, 17

“Look at that penguin!” exclaimed Mia. “Look how he waddles. Doesn’t he remind you of somebody?”

Sam snickered. “Yeah—Mr. Thompkins!” At another cage, he pointed to a billy goat with a long beard. “Is that Mr. Benjamin from church? He really needs to shave. People are going to think he’s homeless!”

When they stopped at the aviary, they saw a wide-eyed owl. “There’s our music teacher from school,” Mia said. “Her big, thick glasses make her look just like that owl. Oh! And Olivia looks just like those geese strutting around with their noses in the air. She’s so full of herself.”

Mom frowned. “Here’s an animal that reminds me of someone,” she said, pointing to a large, ugly bird in a cage. “A vulture.”

“It sure is ugly. Who does it remind you of, Mom?” Sam asked eagerly.

“This bird doesn’t attack strong, healthy animals,” said Mom. “It preys on those that are sick or lame—kind of like people who point out things they don’t like in others and criticize them.” She looked at the children sternly. Mia blushed as she and her brother exchanged glances. “Does that sound like anyone you know?” Mom asked.

“You don’t mean us, do you?” asked Sam. “We don’t mean any harm.”

“No. It’s just fun to see who the animals remind us of,” Mia added.

“It sounds to me like you’re making fun of those people,” said Mom. “How would you feel if people made comments like that behind your back?”

Mia sighed. “Pretty bad, I guess.”

“What if we looked for animal qualities that people would like to have pointed out in them?” suggested Sam.

Mia brightened. “I see some already.” She pointed. “Those doves remind me of Mom. Nice, gentle—a symbol of peace.”

“I thought that was Mom,” Sam said, pointing to a parrot in its cage. “It’s so pretty! And it talks to everyone walking by and makes them feel welcome.”

Mom laughed. “Well, thank you, but I didn’t develop those qualities myself—Jesus gave them to me so I could use them to show His love to others.” She smiled at the kids. “Let’s all be doves and parrots instead of vultures and treat people in a way that shows how much Jesus loves them.” Sherry L. Kuyt

How About You?

Do you sometimes make fun of people? Even if they don’t hear what you say, your words can have an effect on them and others around you. Don’t be a vulture that preys on others. Remember that Jesus loves those people, and He’ll help you love them too. Show others His love by always treating them with kindness and respect—whether they’re with you or not.

Today’s Key Verse:
Romans 5:8 Christ died for us while we were still sinners, and by this God showed how much he loves us. (ERV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Be kind to others