Before It’s Too Late

Bible Reading: JOHN 15:9-17

When Reagan arrived home from school, her mother was standing on a stepladder, changing a light bulb in the hallway. “I have a new appreciation for light bulbs,” said Mom with a grin. “Until this one burned out, I didn’t realize how dark this hallway could be.”

Reagan sighed as she put down her books. “Anna’s grandma died yesterday,” she said soberly.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” said Mom. “Anna must feel very sad.”

“She does—especially because it’s been a long time since they went to see her grandma, and now it’s too late.” Tears welled up in Reagan’s eyes. “Someday my grandma will die too.”

Mom put an arm around her. “We miss our loved ones when they leave us, but since Grandma knows Jesus, we know we’ll see her again someday.”

“I know, but…” Reagan paused. “I don’t want to feel sorry I didn’t spend more time with Grandma. I know she loves it when I come over to play board games with her, and I want to do that more often. I’ve just been so busy lately.”

Mom nodded. “It’s easy to take things—and people—for granted,” she said, holding up the burned out light bulb. “We often don’t realize how much they mean to us until they’re not there anymore. But when we remember how important people are to Jesus and that our loved ones are a gift from Him, it will help us show them our love and appreciation.”

Reagan nodded. “Well, I’m not going to treat people like light bulbs anymore,” she said.

As she spoke, Reagan’s little sister came into the room. “Treat people like light bulbs?” Julia asked. “How would you do that?”

“By taking them for granted, and I’m not going to do that anymore,” declared Reagan. “I’m going to spend more time with my family.”

Mom smiled. “You’ll never be sorry for that decision.”

“Does that mean you’ll play tea party with me?” asked Julia hopefully.

“Not now. I want to—” Reagan clapped a hand over her mouth. “I mean—okay, I’ll play with you, Julia. But first I want to call Grandma and tell her I’ll be there on Saturday to play a game with her. Okay, Mom?”

“Okay!” said Mom. “Tell her we’ll all come.” KAREN E. COGAN

How About You?

Do you show your love and appreciation for the family and friends God has given you? Don’t take them for granted. Take a few minutes to think of ways to show your love for your grandparents, parents, siblings, and friends. They are special gifts from God, and He put them in your life so you can show His love to one another.

Today’s Key Verse:
JOHN 15:12 THIS IS MY COMMANDMENT, THAT YOU LOVE ONE ANOTHER AS I HAVE LOVED YOU. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Show your love today