One Big Happy Family

You are important to the kingdom of God. 

A couple of Christmases ago, I bought a soccer foosball game for my kids.  I had all but put it together when I realized it was missing one of the most essential pieces – the ball. I called the manufacturer at the first chance I got, and the new ball arrived in the mail a week later, but the kids had to wait all that time to play their new game.

You know, it could have also been that way if it was a soccer player missing, or a panel, or any number of those screws.

It’s not too unlike the church.  Everyone plays an important part.  It may seem small, but it would not be the same without each of us doing our part.  This is just the lesson we learn in today’s story entitled “One Big Happy Family” which comes from I Timothy 5:1-25.

The theme verse is I Timothy 5:25, “Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.”

Aaron lazily tossed the baseball into his well-oiled glove while admiring the Most Valuable Player trophy that sat on his dresser.  His mind drifted to the grand slam he made in the Little League finals the day before that gave his team the win.

His father poked his head into his room, rousing Aaron from his day dream.  “Come on, son. It’s time to leave for church.”

Aaron took one last glance at the trophy before he walked out.  At church, Aaron was glad to see his friends, Joey and Sid, waiting for him in the foyer. 

“How’s the arm, Mr. MVP?” Joey teased.

Aaron playfully swung his arm from side to side.  While the three bantered about the game, Sister Bentley hobbled past on her walker.

Sid jabbed his thumb in her direction.  “What’s with that woman?” he whispered.  “Ever since her husband died, I heard she’s been mooching off the church.”

“Yeah, I know,” agreed Joey.  “Somebody told me that she’s always calling someone for a ride to service.”

Aaron chimed in. “It’s not like she adds anything to the church anyway.”

Later that afternoon, while Aaron lay on his bed listening to music, his dad came into his room.  Dad went to Aaron’s dresser, picked up the trophy, and turned it over in his hand.

“Nice trophy, son,” Dad said.  “But there’s something I want you to consider. You made a few good plays and hit well, but you didn’t win that game all by yourself.  You had a great team behind you.”

“I know, Dad,” Aaron said.

“It’s the same with the church.  We all have a part to play.  Some parts are more visible than others, but God’s got us doing different things.  Take Sister Bentley, for example.  I heard what you boys said about her today.”

Aaron cringed at the thought of his dad hearing the harsh comments he and his friends had made about her.

“She’s not able to get out much, and she doesn’t have a lot of money, but every morning she prays for everyone in our church.”  Dad pointed the end of the trophy toward Aaron. “Including you.”

“I didn’t know that,” Aaron said.

“I know you didn’t.  But, now that you do, what are you going to do about it?”

“I guess I could apologize. Maybe I could even do something nice for her like…I don’t know… help her around the house with stuff.”

“Sounds like another good play, son,” Dad said, handing the trophy back to Aaron.

Let’s search the Word:

Our verse reference has Paul laying out some rules for Timothy as pastor to follow in the treatment of certain members of the church.  What it shows us is how the church of God is made up of different people with different needs and talents.  Everyone is unique, and everyone deserves love and respect because of how necessary they are to the kingdom of God. And, that includes you too.

Until next time, remember Jesus loves you, so love Him back with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.

Copyright 2011 King's Kids Media

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