Remote Control (Part 1)

Bible Reading: Luke 17:11-19

“I sure hope we get remote control race cars for our birthday,” said Bryce as he and his twin brother walked home from school.

“Me too,” said Andrew, “but with Dad out of work, you know we won’t get them.” He kicked at a stone on the sidewalk.

“Don’t be so sure,” said Bryce. “When Aunt Elizabeth called last week, she asked what we wanted, and I told her we wanted the cars. Who knows! She might get them for us.”

When the boys arrived home, there was a large package on the table. It was for them—a package from Aunt Elizabeth. Could it be? It was! A remote control car—well, sort of. “A remote control truck?” asked Andrew. “Not a race car? And just one?”

Bryce looked at him in disbelief. “You mean we have to share it?”

“Looks like you do,” said Mom.

The boys sighed, but they took turns playing with the truck and learning to use the remote control. “It’s tricky to back up the truck with that trailer attached,” Andrew said after a while. “I didn’t expect it to be like this.”

“What did you expect?” asked Mom.

“That each of us would get a car,” said Bryce.

“I didn’t expect to get a remote control car at all,” said Andrew. “I suppose we really should be thankful to have this truck, even if we do have to share it.”

“I agree with that,” said Mom. “Tell me—what are some things you like about it?”

“Well,” said Bryce, “it does have turbo speed.”

“And it came with a trailer,” said Andrew. “It’s kind of fun figuring out how to make it back up the right way.”

Bryce picked up the truck. “Yeah,” he said. “It might even be more fun than an ordinary remote control car.”

“How about sending Aunt Elizabeth an email to thank her?” Mom suggested. “Mention all the things you like about the gift and thank her for it.” The boys nodded. “And maybe your new truck can also be a reminder to thank God for everything He’s given you,” Mom added. “He always provides and does what’s best for you—even if it’s in ways you don’t expect.” – Tait E. Powell

How About You?

What do you do when you get a gift that isn’t what you wanted? Don’t be like the nine lepers in today’s Scripture reading who failed to say thank you. Thank others for the gifts they give you, even if they’re not what you expected. Most of all, thank God for all He’s given you.

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 100:4 Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.

Today’s Key Thought:

Be thankful for discipline