AUGUST 16, Philippians 2:4

Patricia used to be sickly when young and that made her parents worried. But now, she eats more because she loves food and perhaps because of this, has returned to good health. Patricia loves all types of food, but none more than Japanese food.

One day, Dad brought the family for a buffet at a nice Japanese restaurant. It was a popular place, so the restaurant was crowded. If Dad had not made reservations, they would not have a table for their meal. Before Dad could give thanks to the Lord for the meal, Patricia already headed for the buffet table.

She went straight for her favourite – salmon sashimi. Although there was not much salmon sashimi left on the buffet table, Patricia took all of them - ten pieces. That made a few diners nearby stare at her. She was a little self-conscious, and wanting to avoid them, quickly turned the corner to get to her table. In her haste, she did not see a piece of food on the floor which she stepped on and slipped! Poor Patricia – she fell hard but thank God she did not hurt herself badly!

Was it right for Patricia to grab all the food that she liked? No. Sometimes we are like Patricia. When we come across something we really like, and without any thought for others, we take hold of whatever is available. Not that we cannot take what we like freely, but we should be mindful to leave some for others.

Dear child, please be considerate. Please think of others and not just yourself. The verse today reminds us to think of others.

Thought: Do I usually think of myself before others?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder not to be selfish or self-centered. Teach me to be more like Jesus, and think more for others. Help me start doing it today. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.