JUNE 18, Galatians 5:26

“You love Katie more than me!” Jennifer accused her mother one day. She scowled at her baby sister. “Katie gets more attention than I do, and more meals, and...,” Jennifer pulled away as her mother tried to hug her.

“Jennifer,” said Mother gently, “we need to talk about this.” She took a piece of paper and a pencil. “Let’s make a list. On one side of this paper, write the nice things you get to do. On the other side, list Katie’s privileges.” Jennifer stared at the paper, a frown on her face. Mother smiled and added, “For example, you get to go skating. Write that on your side.” Jennifer did.

Just then, Katie toddled toward the bookcase. “No, no, Katie!” warned Mother, but Katie grabbed a book. “You know you are not allowed to touch those books,” Mother said firmly, putting the book back.

“Book!” demanded Katie, beginning to cry.

As Jennifer looked at her sister, she smiled. “I get to touch all the books and the TV and VCR remote controls,” she said, adding them to her list. After finishing the list, she showed it to her mother.

“You didn’t write much on Katie’s side of the paper,” said Mother. “Did you decide you have more privileges than Katie?” Jennifer nodded. “Now make another list,” suggested Mother. “Write down the times you get attention, and the times Katie does. See how that comes out.”

Jennifer thought for a moment then shook her head. “I get just as much attention,” she decided.” Katie takes two long naps and I get to stay up and do things with you.” She laughed sheepishly. “I guess I was being silly,” she admitted. “Katie has baby privileges, but I have different ones.”

Mother picked up Katie. “God knows what you need at every age,” she said, “and He provides people – usually parents – to take care of your needs.” She smiled at Jennifer. “Katie’s privileges are all she needs right now, and I believe yours are right for you too. They’ll change and grow along with you.”

Thought: Have you been jealous of a new baby or of a brother or sister? Or a new friend in church who has become popular?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to appreciate the deep love my parents have for me. Help me not to be calculative or to be jealous of others who may become more popular or surrounded by more friends than me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.