Transplants

Bible Reading: Acts 12:1-10

Ashley moved a flower to a new location in the yard and carefully packed dirt around it. She remembered how careful she and Mom had been when they had transplanted flowers earlier. Even so, not all of those had lived, so now they were trying again.

“I hope these flowers do well this time,” said Mom. “Let’s make sure they get water and plant food when they need it.”

Ashley nodded. “Ryan says he likes taking care of them, but if he’s going to weed these, I hope he’ll be more careful,” she remarked glumly. “When we transplanted flowers before, it sure would have helped a lot if Ryan hadn’t pulled some of them up, right along with the weeds.”

“It wasn’t just Ryan,” said Mom. “Some of the flowers would have died anyway. Some plants are harder than others to transplant successfully.”

“I guess so,” said Ashley as she finished with the last plant.

Ashley and her mom put their gardening tools away and then sat down on the porch steps. “They really are doing well, considering that they’ve had so many problems,” said Mom.

Ashley lifted an eyebrow. “These flowers?” she asked in surprise.

“No!” Mom laughed. “I mean our foster kids—Ryan and Ben.” The two brothers had recently joined Ashley’s family. “They actually are a lot like these transplants,” Mom said thoughtfully. “It’s hard for kids to be moved out of their own home and into someone else’s. They need a lot of special care. You’re being a big help, Ashley.”

Ashley brushed some dirt off her knees. “Sometimes I still don’t know what to do for them though,” she said.

“Just continue to make them feel at home and let them know we love them,” Mom replied. “Remember that God is the only one who can make transplants bloom—whether they’re kids or flowers. So most of all, be sure to pray every day for your foster brothers, and keep taking care of them and showing them God’s love. He will use your prayers and your kindness to help Ryan and Ben grow where He’s planted them.”

“Okay,” said Ashley. “I will.” • Karen R. Locklear

How About You?

Does someone you know seem to have a lot of problems? Do you wish you could help? You can! You can show them the love of Jesus by being patient with them and treating them with kindness. Above all, you can pray for them. God acts when His children pray. Learn today’s Key Verse, and remember that God, who answered the church’s prayers for Peter, also listens when you pray.

Today’s Key Verse:
Acts 12:5 While Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Pray and care for others