Slideshow image
Scripture for the day: Mark 10:13-15 Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”
Thought for the day: It’s that time of year, isn’t it? This is the time when those of us who have, through perseverance, hard work, and a tremendous amount of sheer luck, managed to put some years behind us, wish we were still kids. Don’t we? Tell me I’m not the only one who feels that way. Don’t you just want to take all the heavy responsibilities you’ve accumulated, put them in a drawer somewhere and enjoy this season of the year? Isn’t there something deep down inside that wants to just soak in the lights, the tinsel, the trees, presents, home cooked treats you’re not allowed to eat any other time of the year and all the rest? Is there not the urge to just get lost in the excitement of Christmas? Or has Ebenezer Scrooge taken up permanent residence in your heart?
Please don’t misunderstand; I know what this passage of scripture is all about. We are called to be childlike, not childish. We are admonished here to have the same childlike faith that believes, trusts, and doesn’t spend time worrying because all will be taken care of. Without that kind of faith we cannot believe that our heavenly Father loves and will watch over us. Without that kind of faith we will never trust him enough to become his child in this world or look forward to the next.
And I know the true meaning of Christmas. I truly believe we must use this valuable time to repeat the message we’ve been given – Christmas marks the time when God sent His Son into the world to provide a way of salvation for all who will believe.
But don’t you just want to relax for a little while, shed all the so-called dignity and appropriate behavior that comes with being an adult and just enjoy living – being a kid again? Well, if that’s you, then I have some suggestions for you. Try the following:
1. Give yourself a gold star for everything you do today.
2. Open a pack of cupcakes and give one to a friend even though you wanted both of them for yourself.
3. Have a staring contest with your cat.
4. Kiss a frog just in case.
5. Ask "Why?" a lot
6. Have someone read you a story.
7. Wear your favorite shirt with your favorite pants even if they don't match.
8. Do a cartwheel. (be careful with this one)
9. Hide your vegetables under your napkin.
10. Sit really still for as long as the dog (or cat) is asleep in your lap.
11. Find some pretty stones and save them.
12. Stick your head out the car window and moo if you see a cow.
13. Walk barefoot in wet grass.
14. Make cool screeching noises every time you turn.
15. Fuss a little, then take a nap.
16. Take a running jump over a big puddle.
17. Do that tap-someone-on-the-shoulder-while-you-stand-on- their-opposite-side-and-they-turn-around-and-no-one's- there thing.
18. Enjoy your all-time favorite candy-bar. (Forget you've heard of calories!)
19. Throw something and when it lands make a cool exploding bomb noise.
20. Buy yourself a helium balloon.
21. And one of my favorites: At the department store, hide in one of those round clothing racks and, when a stranger walks by, say in a high, squeaky voice, “Pick me, pick me!”
Now, I wouldn’t suggest doing all these things in one day; you may find yourself in a home somewhere watching as people tell you you’re O.K. while giving one another knowing glances. On the other hand, why not take a few moments to just relax and enjoy being a kid again.
Now go take on your world. - Bill