Prized Antique

Bible Reading: Leviticus 19:32; Proverbs 16:31; 20:29; Isaiah 46:4

The floor squeaked beneath Mia’s feet as she and her mom walked into the antique store. The air had a heavy smell to it, and the shelves around Mia held all sorts of interesting things—old bottles and jars, antique oil lamps, dishes, and cooking utensils. While her mother looked at knickknacks, Mia walked over to get a closer look at some dolls.

Several of the dolls looked really old. One had tin eyes that were scratched, the paint on its wooden body was peeling, part of its hair was gone, and it wore tattered clothes. Mia looked at the card tied to the doll’s arm and gasped when she saw the price. “I can’t believe anyone would pay so much for this beat-up doll,” she said quietly to herself.

A woman standing nearby heard her comment. “That doll doesn’t look like the dolls you probably have at home,” she said, “but it’s very old, and that makes it valuable to a doll collector.” Mia nodded and moved on.

On the way home, Mia told her mother about the dolls. “They were really, really old!” she said.

“Maybe they once belonged to some of the ladies we see when we visit the nursing home,” said Mom.

“I think they were even older than that,” Mia replied. “They looked worn out, but the woman there said the dolls are valuable because they’re so old.”

“That’s interesting,” said Mom. “It’s important to remember that elderly people have great value too. Many of the people we know at the nursing home are feeling worn out, but they’re still special and precious.”

Mia smiled. “Like Mrs. Murphy? She tells the best stories.”

“And I especially value her prayers for our family,” said Mom. “Those people are very valuable to God too. Jesus cares deeply about people who feel forgotten or no longer useful. He promises to be with His children their whole lives and to take care of them in their old age. His Word reminds us that we need to honor our elders by showing them kindness and respect.”

Mia nodded. “I better take good care of my dolls too,” she said. “Then maybe they’ll be really valuable someday—but not as valuable as people, of course.” • Wanda E. Brunstetter

How About You?

Do you see value and worth in elderly people? They are more valuable than any prized antique. Jesus loves them just as much as He loves you, and He wants you to honor and respect them. Listen to them and learn from the experiences and wisdom God has given them. Remember that He cares for them in their old age, and He’ll do the same for you.

Today’s Key Verse:
Isaiah 46:4 I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Honor the elderly