February 8, Romans 6:23

From the window, Nicole watched Mickey, her pet monkey. He was not happy to be outside by himself. He sat on the step and unsuccessfully pulled at the edge of the door. Then he went behind the steps to the cooler crawling space under the house. There he waited for his chance to get back into the house.

After a while, Nicole had to run an errand for her mother. From his hiding place, Mickey saw her leave, and he was ready and waiting when she returned. When Nicole opened the door and went into the house, Mickey jumped out and ran in behind her. She didn’t see him, and she let the heavy door snap shut. It closed on Mickey’s tender tail.

Mickey turned around and grabbed his tail as though it were a rope. He chattered and cried in desperation. He pulled his hardest, but it was no use. His tail was stuck in the door.

“Poor Mickey!” gasped Nicole as she ran back to the door. With one hand she pushed the door open, and with the other she scooped Mickey into her arms. He swished his hurting tail and rubbed the spot where the door had slammed on it. “Oh, Mickey, your poor tail!” cried Nicole. “Why did you try to get in all by yourself?”

As Nicole cuddled him and soothe away his hurt, she saw some friends outside. A thought came. “You’re just like some of my friends who try to get into heaven their own,” she told Mickey. “You didn’t make it into the house, and they won’t make it into heaven by themselves.” she said as she soothed her monkey. “I rescued you, and you’re safe and loved. Maybe if I use you as an example, my friends will understand about trusting the Lord instead of trying to work their way to heaven.”

Thought: Are you trying to get into heaven all by yourself or by the things you do? Why not admit you’re a sinner and let Jesus rescue you? He loves you and died for you.

Prayer 1 (if you have believed): Heavenly Father, I thank You for the salvation in Jesus. Help me to rely on Your strength and be willing to change day by day to be a better Christian. In Jesus’ name I pray – amen.

Prayer 2 (if you have not believed, you can be saved if you pray this prayer): Heavenly Father I confess that I am sinner in need of Your forgiveness. I accept the Lord Jesus as my personal Lord and Saviour. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.