NOVEMBER 18, Exodus 20:15

“Look at that old uncle at his newspaper stand, Beng” said Ken. “Let’s have some fun with that old man. You keep his attention, while I’ll get a magazine or comic book from his stand!” In the alley, a few moments later, each boy held a comic book. “That old man didn’t even notice me!” exclaimed Ken. “He was watching you.”

Beng laughed. “I made him think I was after a paper for my dad. That was great fun!” “Maybe you think prison will be fun too,” said a voice behind the boys. They turned around to see a police officer standing there.

Since it was the boys’ first “run-in” with the law, the newspaper vendor agreed not to press charges. However, the officer took the boys to the nearby police station and called the boys’ parents. Before they were released, they were given a stern lecture and warning.

“I can’t see why there should be such a fuss just over snitching a couple of comic books,” complained Ken, when they were ready to go.“Yeah,” agreed Beng. “It was such a little thing.”

“Boys, you stole something and thought it was fun?” said Beng’s father. Ken’s father nodded. “And I’m afraid you don’t even feel remorseful, except for getting caught. That’s serious. It’s the way a life of crime often begins.”

“Aw, Dad, you don’t really believe we’d do anything really bad, do you?” objected Ken. “We wouldn’t take anything big.”

“The act of stealing, regardless of the value of the stolen item, is sinful,” replied Dad. “I find this especially disappointing since both of you claim to be Christians and attend the same Junior Worship class!” “You’re old enough to know right from wrong,” said Dad, “and God expects you to use that knowledge to live a life pleasing to Him right now.”

Thought: Live a right life for the Lord starting right now!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to realise that stealing is a sin. May Thou grant me the strength to resist the temptation to take what belongs to others. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.