Life Luggage (Part 2)

Bible Reading: Romans 12:18-21

James was quiet as the plane rolled down the runway. “Nervous?” asked Dad.

“No,” said James. “Well, not about the flight. I was thinking about something you said. Are you sure everyone has luggage they carry in their lives? Even bullies?”

Dad nodded. “Bullies often have the heaviest life luggage of all. It’s filled with bricks of hurt, sadness, and anger they can’t seem to get rid of.”

“But then why is Frank—I mean, bullies—so mean?”

“Remember in the airport when you wanted someone to carry your luggage for you?” asked Dad. “Well, bullies are so tired of dragging their life luggage around by themselves, they try to push their bricks onto others.”

“I try to be nice to Frank, but when I do, he just gets meaner! Yesterday I asked if he needed help, and he called me a—well, it wasn’t very nice.”

“Some people haven’t been shown how to be kind,” said Dad. “Frank is probably afraid of looking weak. He probably feels stronger when he acts mean.”

James looked down. “Dad, sometimes when Frank is mean, I just want to get back at him by making him feel bad too.”

Dad nodded. “I know a lot of adults who hurt others back instead of learning how to love them better. Two bullies won’t change anything. I don’t think Frank enjoys being mean to you, James. He just doesn’t know what else to do.” Dad squeezed James’ shoulder. “I’ll call the school when we get back and tell them what’s happening with Frank. In the meantime, try to give your anger and hurt to—”

“I know!” James interrupted. “My luggage carrier!” Dad nodded and gave James a high five. “You know, Dad,” said James, “Frank probably doesn’t know that Jesus wants to be his luggage carrier too.”

“You’re probably right,” said Dad, gripping the seat as the plane took off. “He needs someone to tell Him—and to pray for him too. He also needs to see God’s love in action—a friend who will continue being nice to him, even though he’s mean in return. Maybe someday, with prayer and persistence, that will change.”

Just then, something in the compartment above their heads shifted with a loud THUD! A woman in the row behind them gasped. “What was that?”

James laughed. “Probably the brick from our backyard!” – Kelly Carlson

How About You?

Do you ever want to hurt someone who is hurting you? It’s natural to want revenge, but that’s not what Jesus wants you to do. If you’re being bullied or hurt by someone, it’s important to tell a trusted adult who can help with the situation. But don’t let your hurt and anger take over—give them to Jesus and ask Him to replace them with His love.

Today’s Key Verse:
Matthew 5:44 (NIV) Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

Today’s Key Thought:

Love those who hurt you