NOVEMBER 5

Romans 12:5

The Tan family drove up to one of Malaysia’s parks for holiday. As they were near the campground in a forest, the sun shone brightly through the canopy of trees. Everyone exclaimed in awe when they drove over a bridge near a gushing waterfall.

“Wow!” exclaimed Eric when at last they pulled into their campsite. “It’s going to be fun camping here! I can’t wait to go hiking!”

“I know,” agreed Cara. “Let’s get the camp set up so we can start exploring.” She turned to her mother. “Can Jane and I get firewood?” “Sure,” agreed Mom. “I’ll help you. We’ll get some water, too.”

“I’ll help you get all the gear out and put up the tent, okay, Dad?” offered Eric. Dad nodded, and soon everyone was busy working.

“The girls can’t do this hard stuff like I can,” bragged Eric as he helped Dad pound tent stakes into the ground. “Good thing there are easy jobs for them to do, like carrying wood and getting water.”

“Your sisters are younger than you, so maybe they should have easier jobs. But, don’t let them hear you say that,” warned Dad. “I doubt they’d agree that their jobs are any easier than yours. Besides, every family member’s job is important. What do you think dinner would be like without firewood and water?”

Eric thought about that. “Well,” he said, “without firewood, we couldn’t cook anything.” He grinned. “If we’re having hot dogs, it might not be so bad – they taste pretty good cold. I wouldn’t like raw hamburgers, though.” Dad nodded. “I’m looking forward to a nice, hot meal,” he said, “and what would you drink if nobody got the water?”

“Hot choc...” began Eric. He laughed. “Oh, never mind! Without water and firewood, there wouldn’t be any hot chocolate! You’re right, Dad. Everybody’s job is important.” Dad smiled. “Everyone working together and doing his part is what makes a family run smoothly.” Then he added, “You know, that’s true in God’s family, too. Every person, and every job, is important.”

Thought: Do you think that in church, only certain responsibilities or people are important?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to realise that every Christian is a member of God’s family, and each one is needed. May I learn that we are all in Christ through the common faith we have. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.