Part of the Family

Bible Reading: Hebrews 2:10-12

“Look out!”

Caroline ducked as a football sailed over her head. Her older cousin Jacob ran past to retrieve the ball. “Sorry about that,” he said as he scooped it up.

Caroline laughed. “No problem. It missed me!”

“Want to join us?” asked Jacob as he turned to resume his game with several other kids.

“Maybe later. Right now Lauren is going to get a jump rope.”

Caroline was having a great time at their family reunion. People were everywhere—old people, young people, laughing people, quiet people, aunts and uncles, and lots of cousins. Caroline loved it. There was always someone to talk to or play with.

After lunch, Caroline and another cousin played with the smaller kids while their parents cleared tables. Later, when the little kids were taken to be put down for naps, Caroline looked around, trying to decide what to do next. She saw her aunt Sara approaching. “I saw wildflowers down at the end of this lane,” said Aunt Sara. “Want to come along and have a closer look?” Caroline nodded eagerly.

Aunt Sara lived far away and didn’t come to visit very often. But as they walked and talked, Caroline discovered that she and her aunt enjoyed many of the same things. “This family reunion is so cool,” said Caroline. “There’s always someone to play with and talk to.”

“It’s fun to get the whole family together, isn’t it?” said Aunt Sara. “It reminds me of another family we’re a part of. God’s family is made up of all those who trust in Jesus, and there are many of us all over the world.”

“Too many for a family reunion!” said Caroline with a laugh.

Aunt Sara smiled. “Maybe so, but one day we will all be together with Jesus in heaven. Think of how much fun that will be! And until then, we can enjoy being with other Christians here too.”

“You mean, by going to church?” asked Caroline.

Aunt Sara nodded. “This reunion has reminded me how special it is to spend time together as a family, and we do that each week when we go to church and worship Jesus together. No matter how old we are or where we live, we’re bound together by God’s love.” • Myrina D. Mccullough

How About You?

Do you enjoy spending time with your family? It’s fun to get together with extended family you don’t get to see as often. If you trust in Jesus, you’re also part of another family—God’s family! Even though we can’t all be together until we’re in heaven, we can enjoy being together in smaller groups at church. Spend time getting to know other members of God’s family.

Today’s Key Verse:
Hebrews 2:11 Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Spend time with God’s family