MAY 17, Hebrews 12:2

Eight-year-old Jon was sitting in front of the television, watching a cartoon show. His favourite character was Captain Midnight, and he often pretended to be Captain Midnight with his black cape and hood.

“Mom,” said Jon’s sister Cassie one morning, “I left a five-dollar note on my dresser yesterday, but now it’s gone!” “Are you sure?” asked Mom. Cassie nodded. “100% sure!” she declared.

Mom turned to her son. “Do you know anything about that, Jon?” she asked. He was so engrossed in the TV programme that he did not realise she was speaking to him. She tried again. “Let’s see…” Mom chuckled. “Earth calling Captain Midnight!” she chanted. “Come in, Captain!”

Jon loved this game, and he answered in his deepest voice. “Captain Midnight speaking. How can I help you today?”

“Cassie is missing some money,” replied Mom. “Can you help us, Captain?”

“Mystery easily solved” responded Jon. “Captain Midnight takes from the rich and gives to the poor. Money was given to the poorest boy in Captain Midnight’s class.” With this admission, he shouted, “Up, up, and away.” He spread his arms to pretend he was flying to school.

“Hold on there,” said Mom, catching hold of his arm. “We’ve played Captain Midnight with you because we thought it was a harmless game, but I’m afraid you’ve carried it much too far, Jon!”

“But I did something good with the money,” protested Jon. “I gave it to Kok Lin. He needed it.”

“But it wasn’t yours to give,” replied Mom. “You stole it.” She shook her head. “It seems you’ve made Captain Midnight a pattern for your life. The Bible tells us to make Jesus our example. You know what God says about stealing. Would Jesus have taken what didn’t belong to Him?”

“Well… no,” mumbled Jon.

“Jon, you know I have to punish you,” said Mom. “You will not be allowed to watch cartoons for a week. And you’ll have to pay Cassie the five dollars out of your allowance. I hope you’ll remember this lesson!”

Thought: Do you have a hero or person you especially admire? No one is better than Jesus!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me follow the example of the Lord Jesus always. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.