Dirty Sneakers

Bible Reading: Isaiah 64:6-7; Ephesians 2:8-10 “All right!” Oliver exclaimed as his mom presented him with a pair of bright new sneakers. “They’re just what I wanted!” “I’m glad you like them,” said Mom, “but let’s try to keep them clean. Save them for school or when you’re out with your friends. You have plenty…

The Tablet of Your Heart

Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:1-8 “My stomach hurts, Mom,” said Kaylee, burying her head in her pillow. “Don’t make me go to school today.” Mom put her hand on Kaylee’s forehead. “You felt okay at dinner last night—you ate half a pizza! Is something wrong?” Kaylee glanced at her electronic tablet lying on her bedside table….

A Curious Incident (Part 2)

Bible Reading: Luke 6:27-37 After their bikes were stolen, Ryder and Josh asked all their friends and neighbors to be on the lookout. They prayed about it too—and Dad even prayed for the person who had taken the bikes. As they were praying together a few days later, Ryder’s thoughts wandered. I wish I could…

A Curious Incident (Part 1)

Bible Reading: Psalm 19:7-11 As Ryder and Josh set plates and forks on the table for lunch, a dog started barking outside. “There Sarge goes again,” said Ryder with a sigh. “He’s always barking.” “This bark sounds different than usual,” said Mom. “Maybe one of you boys should go check it out.” “Aw, Mom, we’re…

The Leech

Bible Reading: Matthew 5:10-16; Colossians 4:2-6 Brielle and Zane came laughing and splashing out of the water and onto the beach near their family cabin. The cool water had felt wonderful on such a warm day, but as Brielle began toweling off, she suddenly stopped laughing. She shrieked in horror and pointed at her ankle….

Leaning Lydia

Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:1-6 “Can you quiz me on some review questions for a test, Dad?” Lydia asked one evening. Dad agreed, so Lydia handed him her study sheet. Dad asked Lydia several questions on topics she had studied. “Just a few to go,” Dad said finally. “What’s the name of the tower in Italy…

A Friend of Sinners

Bible Reading: Luke 6:27-36 Max strung out a long piece of cheese and took a bite of his pepperoni pizza. He loved this restaurant—it had tons of fun games. This would’ve been the best day ever except for the mean kid. He looked across the table at his mother. “Mom, see that tall kid over…

The Broken Train

Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4-7 “Oh, Nathan, don’t cry,” Sierra told her little brother when he showed her his broken train. “Let’s go see if Grandpa can fix it.” They took the train to Grandpa. “No problem,” he said after checking it over. “I’ll make it good as new.” The kids followed him to his workshop,…

Respecting God’s Stuff

Bible Reading: Colossians 1:15-20 Eric stomped into his brother’s room. “You are not going to believe this, Tom!” Eric was so angry his ears were red. Tom closed the book he was reading. “What’s the matter?” “Just look at my new interactive robot!” The robot’s arm dangled from its side. “That’s the last time I…

Tidal Wave

Bible Reading: Matthew 7:24-29 Jonathan hung up his jacket in the hallway closet and walked into the kitchen. “Hi, Mom,” he said. “Hey, buddy,” replied Mom. “Need a glass of milk and a few crackers?” Jonathan nodded and plopped down in a chair while his mother poured him some milk. “You’re not going to believe…