Children of God

Bible Reading: Galatians 3:26; 4:6-7; Hebrews 2:11

Marisol folded her pajamas and placed them in the top drawer of a white dresser. There was also room for her underwear, socks, and a photo of her mom and brother. Her jeans and a pair of shorts went into the drawer below, and she hung her three T-shirts in the small closet. Marisol placed the stuffed bunny a volunteer had given her on the bed, then sat down on the pink flowered quilt.

Beverly, her sponsor, knocked on the door. “Can I come in?”

“Sí,” said Marisol. “Yes.” She needed to remember to speak English.

Beverly sat beside Marisol. “The towels, shampoo, and soap are in the bathroom. If you need anything else, let me know.”

“Gracias—thank you.” Marisol smiled, but inside she wanted to cry. What she needed was Mami and Jorge, her brother. In this country, she was like an orphan, living with people she didn’t know.

Several months ago, Marisol’s family decided she’d be safer in the United States than in El Salvador, where gangs of men and boys attacked and hurt people. They couldn’t afford for all three of them to make the long trip, so they sent Marisol with strangers. Ever since she’d left home, Marisol felt alone and scared.

Beverly put her hand over Marisol’s. “I can only imagine how frightened you must be, but remember, you have family here.”

Marisol understood more English than she could speak, but she was confused. “Mi familia, my family…” She tried to remember the correct words. “No está aquí—is not here!”

“But there’s another family you’re a part of,” said Beverly. “Didn’t you tell me you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?”

Marisol nodded. Her family walked to church every Sunday. They thanked Jesus for their food before eating, and each night, Mami, Marisol, and Jorge thanked Jesus for protecting them.

Beverly smiled. “Then you are one of God’s children and belong to His family—the church! You aren’t alone.” Beverly hugged her tight.

“En serio?” asked Marisol.

“Really,” answered Beverly.

Marisol gave Beverly a small grin. She wouldn’t stop missing Mami and Jorge, but it felt good to know she had family here too.

-Bonnie Carr

How About You?

Are you a follower of Jesus Christ? Have you trusted Him to save you from sin? If so, you are part of His family—the church. Families help and support one another. No matter how far away you are from your parents, grandparents, brothers, or sisters, you can find family in the church. You are a child in God’s family!

Today’s Key Verse:
John 1:12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

You are a child of God