Appreciation Appreciated

Bible Reading: Romans 16:1-16

This whole chapter is like the world’s longest greeting card! Diego thought one morning as he read the sixteenth chapter of Romans. He looked at the verses again. It talks about people Paul appreciated. Maybe it’s to show us we should let people know how much we appreciate them. I know—I’ll do that today! I wonder what they’ll think? Diego grinned. They’ll probably be surprised!

At breakfast, Diego smiled at his mom when she handed him a plate of toast and eggs. “Thanks for fixing this for me, Mom.” He turned to his brother. “And thanks for letting me use your markers for my poster, Luis.” Mom and Luis looked a little surprised, but they gave Diego big smiles.

Later that day, Diego greeted a friend. “Hi, Gabe! It sure was nice of you to stick up for me when those guys were teasing me yesterday.”

“Hey, no problem,” Gabe said with a grin. “That’s what friends are for.”

After class, Diego went up to his teacher, who was grading papers at her desk. “I like the way you’ve been teaching us about all those Civil War battles,” he told her. “The stories you tell make studying so much more interesting. And they help me remember the dates.”

Miss Simmons smiled. “Why, thank you! I’m glad you find it helpful.”

On the way home from school, Diego saw Pastor Grey and the church music director standing in the parking lot. “Hi, Pastor Grey,” said Diego as he approached. “In that sermon about the Ten Commandments last Sunday, you explained them in a way I could understand. And I like the music you pick every week, Mrs. Bell.” Diego received two more big smiles.

That night, as Diego was getting ready for bed, he recalled all the smiles he’d gotten that day. “People appreciate being appreciated,” he murmured to himself. Then he thought of something else. I haven’t told God how much I appreciate Him today. So he sat down on his bed and prayed. “Dear Jesus, thank You for loving me and for dying on the cross for my sins. And thank you for all the wonderful people you’ve put in my life. Amen.”

-Linda Weddle

How About You?

Who are some people you appreciate? Have you told them? Make a list of five people you’re thankful for, and then share your appreciation with them. And don’t forget to include Jesus on your list. He deserves the most appreciation of all! Thank Him for all He’s done for you and for putting people in your life who love you, help you, and point you to Him.

Today’s Key Verse:
Philippians 1:3 (NLT) Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.

Today’s Key Thought:

Share your appreciation