NOVEMBER 2

Proverbs 17:17

“Have you ever heard people use colours to describe their feelings?” Miss Lee asked her class. David waved his hand to make sure she saw it. “Like green with envy?”

“How about purple with rage?” Katie offered. “Or blue, like when they’re sad.”

“All good examples,” Miss Lee agreed. “Now, people don’t actually change colour, but some animals do. A chameleon, for example, can quickly change its skin colour in response to light, temperature, or other things in its environment. Other animals change colour to blend in with their surroundings. The ability to do that is an animal’s defence against enemies.”

That evening, David talked about the day. “People use different colours to tell how they feel,” he said, “but animals really do change their colour. Isn’t that cool?”

“Very interesting,” agreed Dad. “Sounds like you had a good day.”

“Pretty good,” replied David, but he frowned. “Marc and I always play together at recess time, but today he acted like he didn’t know me!” added David. “A bunch of guys were looking at his new iPod when I came up, and he wouldn’t let me look at it or even speak to me. I think he just wanted the other kids to think he was cool.” David paused. “You know what, Dad? I think Marc was a ‘chameleon friend’ today!”

“I guess you could use that term for people who change their behaviour toward others,” agreed Dad. “It’s a good thing when an animal can do that, but it’s not what God wants for people. You’ve probably learned some Bible verses that tell you how you should treat other kids. Can you remember any of them?” David nodded. “We had a good one in Sunday school just last week,” he said. “It’s Proverbs 17:17, and it says friends should love each other most of the times.”

“No, not most of the times.” Dad shook his head. “At all times,” he said. “Keep that in mind, son, when you think of Marc and see him again. “Okay,” agreed David. “I’ll remember!”

Thought: Have you encountered a “chameleon” friend? How did you feel? Have you been one yourself?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I learn today’s lesson so my friends will find me reliable and trustworthy, just like a child of God should behave. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.