For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? (Matthew 5:46
NRSV Bible)
I remember reading a story in Better Homes and Gardens about a daughter who was home from college for the summer. She was in and out of the house at all hours, and rarely let her parents know where she was going.
The parents and their daughter got into an argument over the subject of where she was going one night. The daughter yelled, "You cannot expect me to act like a kid anymore." Her parents responded, "We don't want you to be a kid. We simply still worry about you."
After ten days of this, the parents decided to demonstrate how they felt about their daughter's behavior. With out telling their daughter, they scooped up the two younger children one Friday evening and headed to a nearby resort. They enjoyed playing in the pool and having fun together. Late Saturday evening when they returned home. Their daughter was frantic.
"Where were you guys," she yelled. "I was worried sick."
Her parents responded, "Why do we have to tell you where we are going all the time?" Their daughter laughed as she figured out the lesson she was being taught.
Though drastic, these parents are obviously great because they showed their love and concern for their daughter.
Being great means we love one another.
Dear Jesus, you are truly great because you gave up your life for me and for all of God's people. May I also become great by sharing your love. Amen.
Ron Newhouse
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