Seesaw Ride

Bible Reading: Isaiah 40:8; Matthew 24:35; Hebrews 13:8

“I’m flying!” exclaimed Kyle as he gripped the handle of the rising seesaw.

“My turn,” announced his sister, Kendra. She pushed her feet against the packed earth, sending herself upward while Kyle returned to ground level. “You look happier than you did this morning,” Kendra said.

Kyle’s smile faded a little. “I was disappointed when Tom didn’t want to play today.” He dug his heels into the dirt and rested there. “He promised me yesterday he’d come over so I could try out his new video game, but this morning he decided to go fishing with his dad, so…”

“So he broke his promise,” said Kendra, swinging her dangling legs.

Kyle nodded, looking a little glum. “Tom changes his mind a lot.”

“Hey! Don’t leave me up here!” exclaimed Kendra.

Kyle released his weight, and they fell into their familiar rhythm.

“You know, Kyle, friends support each other, sort of like riding a seesaw. If I got off, you’d fall with a big thump. That’s what Tom did today. He let you down when he didn’t keep his word.”

“I thought my day was ruined until you said you’d go to the park with me,” said Kyle. “I can’t always count on Tom, but I’m glad I can count on you.”

“You know who else you can count on?” asked Kendra.

“Mom and Dad?”

“Yes, but I was thinking of Jesus. He doesn’t change His mind or break His promises—even if we sometimes break our own promise to follow His commandments. He’s dependable even though we may not be. And He promises to forgive us when we make mistakes.”

“So, I should forgive Tom?”

Kendra nodded. “If you want to play with him, maybe having a back-up plan would be a good idea in case he changes his mind again.”

Kyle smiled. “I want to get off for a minute.” Kendra stopped the seesaw in the middle to keep both sides balanced as Kyle left his seat. He sauntered toward his sister and gave her a hug. “Thanks for being my back-up plan today.” Elena Dee

How About You?

Has a friend or family member changed their mind or broken a promise to you? It’s natural to feel disappointed when someone lets you down. When your feelings are hurt, turn to Jesus. His promises and love for you will never change. You can always count on Him.

Today’s Key Verse: Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

You can count on Jesus