So Different?

Bible Reading: Psalm 139:13-18

Laney shuffled awkwardly into her new classroom.

She felt as if all eyes were on her as she used her walker to slowly make her way to her desk.

Mrs. Wilkins smiled broadly at the front of the classroom and announced, “Students, today you have a new classmate. Laney Stafford and her family recently moved here from Florida, and today is her first day in class. I hope you will all make her feel welcome.”

Laney looked around and tried to smile, but she felt nervous and out of place. It was hard being the new kid, but it was even harder being the new kid with a walker.

Later, as Laney ate lunch silently by herself, one of her classmates came and sat beside her. “Hi,” the girl said cheerfully. “My name is Brianna. It’s great to meet you. You want to hang out during recess?”

Laney looked at Brianna suspiciously. “You aren’t embarrassed to be seen with me?” she asked.

“No. Why would I be?” asked Brianna.

Laney shrugged. “I walk funny. I have to use a walker. I’m so…different. Doesn’t that bother you?”

“No, Laney, it doesn’t. It doesn’t matter to me how well you can or can’t walk.” Brianna paused and then added, “The Bible says that you are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made.’ We all are, but we’re all broken too. We all have disabilities of some kind. You struggle to walk; I struggle in school. Just because our struggles are different doesn’t mean one kind is worse than the other.”

Laney thought for a moment, then smiled. “You’re right, Brianna. We’re all different, and God loves us just the way we are. Thank you for reminding me.”

Brianna nodded. “You’re welcome, Laney. And one day, Jesus will heal all our brokenness and make us whole again. Remember that too!” She smiled and took a bite of her sandwich. “Let’s both embrace our differences and just be friends. By the way, has anyone ever told you that you have a beautiful smile?” -Madison Blizzard

How About You?

Have you ever felt awkward or self-conscious because you think of yourself as “different”? Maybe you struggle with a physical or mental disability, or have trouble fitting in. Remember, Jesus loves you just the way you are, and while each of us bears the brokenness of this sinful world in some way, He promises to heal us. Trust Him to help you through difficulties and to reach out to others who may feel “different” too.

Today’s Key Verse:
Psalm 139:14 I will praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Today’s Key Thought:

God loves you as you are