Graeme loved his house. Their house was on a bluff that overlooked the ocean where his dad was the lighthouse keeper. He loved it during a storm. The waves crashed against the rocks, and sometimes the spray even hit the house. Following a summer storm, when the waves where still high, Graeme would sit on the porch and see how long it would take him to get completely soaked. On a good day, he could come in dripping wet within 15 minutes.
Because his dad had a very important job of making sure the light in the lighthouse was always working, Graeme had a very important job too. During a storm, his dad would have to be in the lighthouse a lot, and if the power went out the steps up to the light were very dark. His dad needed to always have the oil lamps ready so that he could see where he was going. It was Graeme's job to make sure the lamps were always clean and ready to use.
Graeme was listening to the weather report and heard the news that a really bad storm was coming. He decided he had better make sure the oil lamps were all ready for use. He went down to the cellar and brought up the box with the lamp supplies and he started to work.
Graeme put the big blanket on the table, and then went around the house and gathered up all the oil lamps. One by one he took each lamp apart and checked to make sure the burner stem was working smoothly. If the stem was sticking they would not be able to change the wick. Next he cut a nice long wick for each lamp, trimmed the top edge so that it would give a nice even glow, and put a new wick in each lamp. Finally, Graeme knew that a clean chimney gave off a nice bright light, so he carefully cleaned and polished so that not a streak could be found. Then Graeme put all the lamps away and checked to make sure there was a full box of matches near each lamp.
With his job done, Graeme looked forward to the big storm coming. Usually he could watch the storm roll in over the ocean. The waves would grow larger even before the storm arrived.
Today Graeme could see kids laughing and playing in those large waves and he wondered why their parents did not take them home. He knew that those waves were dangerous. A few years earlier he had seen a man drown because of the power of the waves, and he knew the warning signs were up because he had seen the red flag flapping in the wind.
Suddenly a crack of thunder closely followed by a blinding flash took Graeme's attention. The storm had arrived. Graeme knew it was going to be a good one. Already the spray from the waves was hitting the front window, and he could see the wall of rain coming closer. His mom called for Graeme to help close the windows.
While Graeme was upstairs, he heard his dad come in and the teakettle whistled. His dad must have come in to get some tea. Graeme quickly finished closing the windows, so he could find out what his dad thought about the storm.
Just as he was entering the kitchen, Graeme heard his dad say, "This is expected to be a bad one. The worst we have had this season. Already there has been power outages down the coast, so I may have to spend quite a bit of time up in the light just to make sure the new generator does its job."
Graeme knew that people's lives depended on his dad making sure the light kept shining. If the light went out many people out at sea could lose their lives by crashing into the rocks below the house.
Turning to Graeme, his dad asked, "Well, son, are the lamps ready in case of a storm?"
Reaching onto the shelf by the back door, Graeme replied, "Yes, Dad, I cleaned them when I heard the storm was coming. The one for the lighthouse is right here." He handed his dad the clean lamp with a box of matches.
Knowing his house chores were done his dad said that Graeme could join him up in the light. As they opened the door to the tower, a crash of thunder shook the house and everything went dark. The power was out. Not waiting to light the lamp Graeme's dad ran up the stairs, the light came first. Slowly Graeme walked up the dark tower, keeping a hand on the wall. There were no windows in the tower so he could not see and in his dash up the stairs, Graeme's dad had taken the lamp with him.
As he grew nearer the top of the tower he could see light. The new generator was working! The light would shine clear. Graeme stuck his head up through the opening of the tower and almost laughed at the look on his dad's face. For so long his dad would have to start up the generator whenever the power went out, and then sit by it until the power returned, eating and sleeping in the tower. This new generator must have started as soon as the power went out, without his dad. His dad's face showed that he was still in shock.
Looking at Graeme, Dad said, "Well son, this generator seems to be doing just fine. Let's go downstairs and have some supper."
Graeme took the lamp and lit it. Something was wrong. The light was there but it was small, sputtering and there was lots of smoke. He could not understand it. Why was it not burning properly? Dad suggested they make their way down to the kitchen and then they could find the problem. Carefully they climbed down the tower stairs and arrived in the dusky kitchen, only to be met with another surprise.
There on the kitchen table was the lamp blanket and ALL the house oil lamps. The kitchen lamp was already apart and they could hear someone coming up the cellar stairs. Mom came into the kitchen with a flickering candle stub in one hand and a container in the other.
Then Graeme remembered. Although he had checked the burner, replaced the wick and cleaned the chimney, he had forgotten the most important part of the process. He had not filled them with oil. Of course it could not burn very well; it needed the oil to keep the flame burning bright.
After they filled all the lamps and put everything away, Mom said, "Graeme, this reminds me of how some Christians try to live. They try to live the right way under their own strength, never asking if there is a better way. But when we turn our lives completely over to Jesus, and welcome the Holy Spirit to be a part of our every day lives, then we have the power to live God's way."
"Jesus told us that when He went away He would send Someone else back so that we would have boldness and power to witness for Him. The Holy Spirit is like the oil, He wants us to shine strong and bright."
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(c) 1997, Mary Heimbecker
Wednesday, February 19, 2003
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
The Church Bus
He isn’t the first, and probably won’t be last. Blown in from the briny ocean, cod cheeks and hard tack, his eyes were lifted up and his heart filled with the bright hopes of the big buck. So here he came from the top of the rock to rock bottom. His hopes weren’t the only things dashed upon the rocks; his relationships were also floundering. Clinging to the lifeline of security were three children hoping against hope that this rope which they clung to was anchored to something. . .
It was tied to something. Not the rock - but the bottle. Not the Saviour - but the suds. Even though on the main land, he had the shifting, bragging heart of a sailor and the only place that would resemble home and the sea was the Great Lakes.
The jig "What do you do with a drunken sailor? You get him to church and get him saved." should have happened but it hadn't. Into this tempestuous, sin driven life, rolled the church bus. Its blue and white paint announced the church. The chipped and rusted vehicle was in no way any indication of the worker’s hearts. The shaky rumbling, rusted bucket of bolts stood in sharp contrast to the unshaking, redeemed and renewed lives of the bus workers.
On Saturday morning, over the blaring noise of Bugs Bunny, the smell of good strong coffee, and bacon and eggs frying in the pan, came a timid knock. The kids slowly unlocked the door and cracked it open.
"Hi," said a shaky voice, "I’m from the church. We have a big blue and white bus that comes around on Sunday mornings to pick up boys and girls, just like you, for Sunday School. Would you like to come?" The lady at the door handed the children a leaflet telling them the time of the pick up and who to call if they wanted to ride the bus.
With a booming voice, the sailor yelled, "Who is it?"
The kids just stood there, staring in silence at the person at the door. Finally one of them piped up, as Dad moved closer to the living room, "I-i-i-it’s a lady from the church. Sh-sh-she wants us to ride the bus to S-s-sunday School."
By now the sailor had made it to the door. It was obvious that there was too much party, and not enough sleep, the night before. He read the leaflet. He hadn’t said no, the kids were starting to get hopeful. He thought, "Sunday morning, peace and quiet with a strong cup of coffee, I might even be able to make it through the day."
Striking up the chord of a confident braggart, "Sure! Sure! They can go. After all, I went to Sunday School back home in Newfoundland. Didn’t do me no harm." So thus began the exciting adventure of the Church Bus.
To encourage the children, look for more riders, and to see the lost saved, the bus workers would visit each home every week. It was on one of these eventful Saturday mornings that -THE KNOCK CAME!
The kids bolted to the door, as Wile E. Coyote fell to his demise for the fourteenth time. Over the tumult of the household, in came the faithful bus workers for their weekly visit.
The kids were excited about Sunday School and Jesus, but Hangover Henry was trying to make a hasty exit out the backdoor. He was planning on taking the stack of empties back for a refund. He only wanted to make one trip to the beer store, but the trunk was already half full, and the stack in the kitchen was still piled high. the bus worker saw him struggling with the closed door and the armful of cases of brown bottles.
"Here let me help." The bus worker held the door open then to the sailor's amazement, the bus worker even picked up a couple of cases of empties and helped load them into the car.
And there standing in track pants, T-shirt and runners, the sailor began to hear about a Saviour. The more they talked, the clearer the picture became. the Spirit-filled Christian painted a word-picture of a life tossed to and fro by the winds and waves of sin, thinking that he was securely moored to the pier, only to find that he was adrift in the open sea without a motor.
But the lighthouse of God’s Word, the anchor of God’s grace, the mercy of the Captain, and the ropes of truth and love that holds securely in any wind stuck fast in the mind of this one who has moved from the port.
After a lengthy visit in the cool morning air, the bus worker heard some news that made his heart skip a beat. "Buddy," the sailor said, "my kids won’t be riding the bus tomorrow. I’m going to be driving them myself. I’ve been watching them, and since they started to Sunday School they’ve changed. I’ve been giving it some thought and like I said, I used to go to Sunday School and it did me no harm. Maybe it’s time to go back."
Sure to his word, the sailor, his wife and kids were in Sunday School the next day, and there they found the Wonderful Counsellor, the Prince of Peace, Almighty God and the Everlasting Father, the Captain of their Salvation.
Why the change? What was it attributed to? The mercy of God, faithful workers and.... the Church Bus.
Jesus said, "If you have done it unto the least of these you have done it unto me."
What happened to the sailor and his family. The church accepted them. They grew in knowledge and understanding of God. Then he became the director of the bus ministry, and he was a great director. But then, he knew what the Church Bus meant to him.
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© Joel Heimbecker, 1995
It was tied to something. Not the rock - but the bottle. Not the Saviour - but the suds. Even though on the main land, he had the shifting, bragging heart of a sailor and the only place that would resemble home and the sea was the Great Lakes.
The jig "What do you do with a drunken sailor? You get him to church and get him saved." should have happened but it hadn't. Into this tempestuous, sin driven life, rolled the church bus. Its blue and white paint announced the church. The chipped and rusted vehicle was in no way any indication of the worker’s hearts. The shaky rumbling, rusted bucket of bolts stood in sharp contrast to the unshaking, redeemed and renewed lives of the bus workers.
On Saturday morning, over the blaring noise of Bugs Bunny, the smell of good strong coffee, and bacon and eggs frying in the pan, came a timid knock. The kids slowly unlocked the door and cracked it open.
"Hi," said a shaky voice, "I’m from the church. We have a big blue and white bus that comes around on Sunday mornings to pick up boys and girls, just like you, for Sunday School. Would you like to come?" The lady at the door handed the children a leaflet telling them the time of the pick up and who to call if they wanted to ride the bus.
With a booming voice, the sailor yelled, "Who is it?"
The kids just stood there, staring in silence at the person at the door. Finally one of them piped up, as Dad moved closer to the living room, "I-i-i-it’s a lady from the church. Sh-sh-she wants us to ride the bus to S-s-sunday School."
By now the sailor had made it to the door. It was obvious that there was too much party, and not enough sleep, the night before. He read the leaflet. He hadn’t said no, the kids were starting to get hopeful. He thought, "Sunday morning, peace and quiet with a strong cup of coffee, I might even be able to make it through the day."
Striking up the chord of a confident braggart, "Sure! Sure! They can go. After all, I went to Sunday School back home in Newfoundland. Didn’t do me no harm." So thus began the exciting adventure of the Church Bus.
To encourage the children, look for more riders, and to see the lost saved, the bus workers would visit each home every week. It was on one of these eventful Saturday mornings that -THE KNOCK CAME!
The kids bolted to the door, as Wile E. Coyote fell to his demise for the fourteenth time. Over the tumult of the household, in came the faithful bus workers for their weekly visit.
The kids were excited about Sunday School and Jesus, but Hangover Henry was trying to make a hasty exit out the backdoor. He was planning on taking the stack of empties back for a refund. He only wanted to make one trip to the beer store, but the trunk was already half full, and the stack in the kitchen was still piled high. the bus worker saw him struggling with the closed door and the armful of cases of brown bottles.
"Here let me help." The bus worker held the door open then to the sailor's amazement, the bus worker even picked up a couple of cases of empties and helped load them into the car.
And there standing in track pants, T-shirt and runners, the sailor began to hear about a Saviour. The more they talked, the clearer the picture became. the Spirit-filled Christian painted a word-picture of a life tossed to and fro by the winds and waves of sin, thinking that he was securely moored to the pier, only to find that he was adrift in the open sea without a motor.
But the lighthouse of God’s Word, the anchor of God’s grace, the mercy of the Captain, and the ropes of truth and love that holds securely in any wind stuck fast in the mind of this one who has moved from the port.
After a lengthy visit in the cool morning air, the bus worker heard some news that made his heart skip a beat. "Buddy," the sailor said, "my kids won’t be riding the bus tomorrow. I’m going to be driving them myself. I’ve been watching them, and since they started to Sunday School they’ve changed. I’ve been giving it some thought and like I said, I used to go to Sunday School and it did me no harm. Maybe it’s time to go back."
Sure to his word, the sailor, his wife and kids were in Sunday School the next day, and there they found the Wonderful Counsellor, the Prince of Peace, Almighty God and the Everlasting Father, the Captain of their Salvation.
Why the change? What was it attributed to? The mercy of God, faithful workers and.... the Church Bus.
Jesus said, "If you have done it unto the least of these you have done it unto me."
What happened to the sailor and his family. The church accepted them. They grew in knowledge and understanding of God. Then he became the director of the bus ministry, and he was a great director. But then, he knew what the Church Bus meant to him.
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© Joel Heimbecker, 1995
Monday, October 22, 2001
Little Joey
It was an exciting time at the Good News Bible Club. The boys and girls would come after school and have a great time. They would sing songs, have quizzes, and hear fantastic Bible stories about Jesus and His love. After singing and story time, the kids would gather together for craft time. The boys were working on bird houses.
Joey liked to help as much as possible. He couldn't do much because he was only three years old. He wasn't in school yet, but his daddy ran the Good News Club, so he was always there. One of the boys needed the hammer to pound a nail in his birdhouse. Joey said, "I'll get the boom, boom." and ran up the basement stairs to get it.
The door opened out over the stairs. Joey reached out and pulled the door toward him. He stepped back to allow the door to swing by. As the door swung open, Joey slipped off the top step and fell. He fell head first onto the cement floor.
He began to cry and everybody ran to Joey, including his daddy.
They all gathered around and watched as Joey lay there. Daddy picked him up and checked to see if he was OK. He kept crying and rubbing his head.. Because of the accident, all the kids went home.
Joey's Mommy ran to the phone and called the doctor. She tried to remain calm, while she was waiting for the doctor. As soon as he came on the phone, She started crying, "Please come quick, Little Joey has fallen from the top step onto the basement floor, and landed on his head. Can you come quickly? ... We will be watching for you."
Soon the doctor arrived and checked Joey. There did not seem to be any broken bones but he said, " If Joey starts to act any different call me right back."
Joey's dad was holding Joey. They were playing with a ball. Joey kept dropping the ball, when all of a sudden Joey started to act funny. His eyes were open but they were all white. He looked like he was sleeping, but they could not wake him up. Joey was unconscious. They called up the doctor and he said, "Take him to the hospital right away." They climbed into the car and started to the hospital.
OH, NO! THEY WERE ALMOST OUT OF GAS!
His dad pulled into the gas station and saw a police car.
He got out of the car and ran over to the policeman. "Please can you take my little boy to the hospital. He is very sick, and I have to get gas."
So, Joey and his mom went off in the police car. "Whirrrrrrrrr!" went the siren. The lights were flashing brightly as the cruiser sped down the road.
Joey's dad got back into his car after getting gas. He could hardly see the road because he was crying so much. He did not want his little boy to die. While driving Joey's dad was praying, "Dear Jesus please don't let my Joey die. Father in Heaven please heal my Joey."
Joey's dad was all alone in the car when Someone spoke to him. It was God. God said, "He's going to be okay!"
Joey's dad wiped the tears away, and started praising God, "Oh, thank you, Jesus! Thank you, Jesus!"
At that moment, the policeman was taking Joey into the hospital, when Joey woke up. By the time his dad arrived, Joey was fine.
Joey's accident happened on Friday night. When Joey's mom and dad arrived home, they told the doctor, "We'll be bringing Joey home on Sunday, in two days.
"Oh, no!" said the doctor, "They mean next Sunday, not this one coming up. Joey was a very sick boy. Please don't get your hopes up."
"We'll see," said his mom and dad.
On Sunday they called from the hospital. "Please, come and get Joey. Please, come and get Joey. Please! Come and get Joey. He's fine, and trying to climb out of his crib. We had to tie him in." So Joey's mom and dad went and picked him up, and brought him home. They were all very happy because God had healed Joey.
I know that God really does heal even today, because you see, I am Joey.
I had cracked the bone in my head and almost died. At the same time God spoke to my dad, God healed me.
God has a special purpose for me, and that is to tell boys and girls about His Son Jesus. God has a special purpose for you. That is to love him and serve him, and as you do, God will show you His plans for your life.
Pastor Joel
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© Joel Heimbecker, 1995
Joey liked to help as much as possible. He couldn't do much because he was only three years old. He wasn't in school yet, but his daddy ran the Good News Club, so he was always there. One of the boys needed the hammer to pound a nail in his birdhouse. Joey said, "I'll get the boom, boom." and ran up the basement stairs to get it.
The door opened out over the stairs. Joey reached out and pulled the door toward him. He stepped back to allow the door to swing by. As the door swung open, Joey slipped off the top step and fell. He fell head first onto the cement floor.
He began to cry and everybody ran to Joey, including his daddy.
They all gathered around and watched as Joey lay there. Daddy picked him up and checked to see if he was OK. He kept crying and rubbing his head.. Because of the accident, all the kids went home.
Joey's Mommy ran to the phone and called the doctor. She tried to remain calm, while she was waiting for the doctor. As soon as he came on the phone, She started crying, "Please come quick, Little Joey has fallen from the top step onto the basement floor, and landed on his head. Can you come quickly? ... We will be watching for you."
Soon the doctor arrived and checked Joey. There did not seem to be any broken bones but he said, " If Joey starts to act any different call me right back."
Joey's dad was holding Joey. They were playing with a ball. Joey kept dropping the ball, when all of a sudden Joey started to act funny. His eyes were open but they were all white. He looked like he was sleeping, but they could not wake him up. Joey was unconscious. They called up the doctor and he said, "Take him to the hospital right away." They climbed into the car and started to the hospital.
OH, NO! THEY WERE ALMOST OUT OF GAS!
His dad pulled into the gas station and saw a police car.
He got out of the car and ran over to the policeman. "Please can you take my little boy to the hospital. He is very sick, and I have to get gas."
So, Joey and his mom went off in the police car. "Whirrrrrrrrr!" went the siren. The lights were flashing brightly as the cruiser sped down the road.
Joey's dad got back into his car after getting gas. He could hardly see the road because he was crying so much. He did not want his little boy to die. While driving Joey's dad was praying, "Dear Jesus please don't let my Joey die. Father in Heaven please heal my Joey."
Joey's dad was all alone in the car when Someone spoke to him. It was God. God said, "He's going to be okay!"
Joey's dad wiped the tears away, and started praising God, "Oh, thank you, Jesus! Thank you, Jesus!"
At that moment, the policeman was taking Joey into the hospital, when Joey woke up. By the time his dad arrived, Joey was fine.
Joey's accident happened on Friday night. When Joey's mom and dad arrived home, they told the doctor, "We'll be bringing Joey home on Sunday, in two days.
"Oh, no!" said the doctor, "They mean next Sunday, not this one coming up. Joey was a very sick boy. Please don't get your hopes up."
"We'll see," said his mom and dad.
On Sunday they called from the hospital. "Please, come and get Joey. Please, come and get Joey. Please! Come and get Joey. He's fine, and trying to climb out of his crib. We had to tie him in." So Joey's mom and dad went and picked him up, and brought him home. They were all very happy because God had healed Joey.
I know that God really does heal even today, because you see, I am Joey.
I had cracked the bone in my head and almost died. At the same time God spoke to my dad, God healed me.
God has a special purpose for me, and that is to tell boys and girls about His Son Jesus. God has a special purpose for you. That is to love him and serve him, and as you do, God will show you His plans for your life.
Pastor Joel
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© Joel Heimbecker, 1995
Thank You, Dad, for the Bike
Joel had an old bike. It was recovered form a scrap heap behind someone's garage. It had solid rubber tires and a bunch of rags tied around the cross bar to act as a seat. He had looked at new bikes in the store and dreamed of owning one. One with real tires, a real seat and shiny chrome wheels and a nice paint job.
Joel's dad was very kind. If he said he would do something, he always kept his promise. Sometimes it took awhile but Joel knew he always kept His promise. One day his dad came to Joel and said, "I am going to give you a new bike, but you will have to wait a while for it. I want you to trust me and hold on to my promise."
Joel responded, "Thank you Dad, for the bike."
Joel dreamed of riding his new bike, and wondered what it would be like. Joel told everybody that his father was going to give him a bike. Every morning, Joel woke up and said, "Dad, thank you for the bike."
Many days passed and everyday Joel thanked his dad for the bike even though he had not received it.
One day, the bully heard Joel telling everybody that his Father was giving him a bike. The bully laughed at Joel, "Where is it? I don't see any bike."
"It's coming sometime. Whenever my dad decides the time is right."
The bully sneered. "Your dad won't give you a bike. He is just a big liar. He doesn't care. He is just playing a big joke on you."
Joel stood firm. " I am getting a bike because my father told me he was getting it for me, and he always keeps his promise." When the bully was gone, he said, "Thank you, Dad, for the bike." He kept dreaming of riding the bike.
The bully kept sneering and Joel started to wonder if he was really getting a bike. He even started to doubt his father's word. He wanted to believe but it was taking so long.
One day his dad came to Joel and said I have something for you. Maybe this was the day that the promise would come but his father only gave him a set of handlebars. "These are the handlebars for your bike. This is part of the promise so you will know that I have not forgotten my word."
"Dad, thank you for the handlebars." Then he stopped and thought. "Thank you for my new bike."
Dad smiled at Joel. "You know my word is true."
One day, the bully came along and asked Joel what he was holding. Joel told him that it was the promise for his new bike. The bully mocked, "You're crazy, that's not a bike, it's just a handlebar. You can't ride it. " Then he snatched the handlebars from Joel and would not give them back.
Joel demanded that the bully return the handlebars but the bully just twisted the handlebars out of shape and then ran off laughing.
Joel was heart broken. The handlebars of his new bike were stolen.
When his father came, Joel told him how the bully had stolen and then twisted the handlebars of his bike and now they were gone. Then Dad asked, "What have I promised you?"
Joel sobbed, "You promised me a bike but the handlebars are gone and I don't have them anymore."
Joel's father lifted his head and wiped away the tears. "What did I promise you?"
"A new bike." Joel answered.
"Will I keep my promise?" Joel nodded his head in the affirmative. "What does the bully have?" Joel stood thinking, and as he pondered the answer all of a sudden he began to laugh. His father was laughing also.
"All he has is a twisted handlebar." Joel responded.
Then Dad said, "While you will be riding your new bike the bully will be running behind you with the twisted handlebars."
It wasn't long after this that Dad came pushing a new bike. Joel was absolutely amazed. It was better than what he had even imagined.
Joel was anxious to ride it, but before he did he grabbed his father in a hug and said, "Thank you Dad, for the bike."
Dad smiled back, "Thank you for trusting in my word and holding to my promise." As Joel rode away, his father called out "Enjoy the Ride."
***
Many time we have desires that our heavenly Father would take pleasure in giving to us. He promises in His Word that He will keep His promise and meet our needs. He asks us to wait, and in waiting He asks us to trust Him and hold on. Many times the biggest bully ever, satan, tries to intimidate, mock and sneer at the Promise of the Father. Even though we may stand in protest the devil steals our joy, peace and hope. If we remain steadfast and have an attitude of gratitude we will see the pleasure of the Father as He gives us our desires. While we ride the bike of promise in the glory of our Father God, the devil is running behind us holding a useless, twisted handlebar.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23 NKJV
And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Galatians 6:9 NKJV
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(c)Joel Heimbecker, 1999
Joel's dad was very kind. If he said he would do something, he always kept his promise. Sometimes it took awhile but Joel knew he always kept His promise. One day his dad came to Joel and said, "I am going to give you a new bike, but you will have to wait a while for it. I want you to trust me and hold on to my promise."
Joel responded, "Thank you Dad, for the bike."
Joel dreamed of riding his new bike, and wondered what it would be like. Joel told everybody that his father was going to give him a bike. Every morning, Joel woke up and said, "Dad, thank you for the bike."
Many days passed and everyday Joel thanked his dad for the bike even though he had not received it.
One day, the bully heard Joel telling everybody that his Father was giving him a bike. The bully laughed at Joel, "Where is it? I don't see any bike."
"It's coming sometime. Whenever my dad decides the time is right."
The bully sneered. "Your dad won't give you a bike. He is just a big liar. He doesn't care. He is just playing a big joke on you."
Joel stood firm. " I am getting a bike because my father told me he was getting it for me, and he always keeps his promise." When the bully was gone, he said, "Thank you, Dad, for the bike." He kept dreaming of riding the bike.
The bully kept sneering and Joel started to wonder if he was really getting a bike. He even started to doubt his father's word. He wanted to believe but it was taking so long.
One day his dad came to Joel and said I have something for you. Maybe this was the day that the promise would come but his father only gave him a set of handlebars. "These are the handlebars for your bike. This is part of the promise so you will know that I have not forgotten my word."
"Dad, thank you for the handlebars." Then he stopped and thought. "Thank you for my new bike."
Dad smiled at Joel. "You know my word is true."
One day, the bully came along and asked Joel what he was holding. Joel told him that it was the promise for his new bike. The bully mocked, "You're crazy, that's not a bike, it's just a handlebar. You can't ride it. " Then he snatched the handlebars from Joel and would not give them back.
Joel demanded that the bully return the handlebars but the bully just twisted the handlebars out of shape and then ran off laughing.
Joel was heart broken. The handlebars of his new bike were stolen.
When his father came, Joel told him how the bully had stolen and then twisted the handlebars of his bike and now they were gone. Then Dad asked, "What have I promised you?"
Joel sobbed, "You promised me a bike but the handlebars are gone and I don't have them anymore."
Joel's father lifted his head and wiped away the tears. "What did I promise you?"
"A new bike." Joel answered.
"Will I keep my promise?" Joel nodded his head in the affirmative. "What does the bully have?" Joel stood thinking, and as he pondered the answer all of a sudden he began to laugh. His father was laughing also.
"All he has is a twisted handlebar." Joel responded.
Then Dad said, "While you will be riding your new bike the bully will be running behind you with the twisted handlebars."
It wasn't long after this that Dad came pushing a new bike. Joel was absolutely amazed. It was better than what he had even imagined.
Joel was anxious to ride it, but before he did he grabbed his father in a hug and said, "Thank you Dad, for the bike."
Dad smiled back, "Thank you for trusting in my word and holding to my promise." As Joel rode away, his father called out "Enjoy the Ride."
***
Many time we have desires that our heavenly Father would take pleasure in giving to us. He promises in His Word that He will keep His promise and meet our needs. He asks us to wait, and in waiting He asks us to trust Him and hold on. Many times the biggest bully ever, satan, tries to intimidate, mock and sneer at the Promise of the Father. Even though we may stand in protest the devil steals our joy, peace and hope. If we remain steadfast and have an attitude of gratitude we will see the pleasure of the Father as He gives us our desires. While we ride the bike of promise in the glory of our Father God, the devil is running behind us holding a useless, twisted handlebar.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23 NKJV
And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Galatians 6:9 NKJV
------------------------------------------
(c)Joel Heimbecker, 1999
Sunday, February 21, 1999
Peace Be Still
After the kids were fed the sixteen large pizzas and consumed four cases of pop as well as 200 cups of orange drink. There were about 100 kids. They were sent to have a rest in children's church.
Jesus Himself knowing all things stayed behind to pray. Now it was late, the service had gone long. Children's church was in full swing. The workers were in the middle of the children and He was alone in the hallway. He looked in the back door and saw them toiling. They stopped three races, settled two brawls, collected twelve candies and tried to sing, but the children were contrary to them.
After the workers' fourth time of trying to quiet them and settle them down, He came in, walking through the back doors. It looked like He was ready to leave, but when the children's workers saw Him standing at the back door ready to depart, they cried out, "Don't go! Please don't leave!"
When He stayed, their troubled hearts became peaceful.
Then Jesus talked to them, "Be of good cheer; it is I, be not afraid."
The children settled down. The commotion became calm. The shuffling ceased. The workers were amazed beyond measure, and marvelled.
He had brought peace.
-----------------------------------------------------
Paraphrase of Mark 6:45-50 by Joel Heimbecker, 1995
Jesus Himself knowing all things stayed behind to pray. Now it was late, the service had gone long. Children's church was in full swing. The workers were in the middle of the children and He was alone in the hallway. He looked in the back door and saw them toiling. They stopped three races, settled two brawls, collected twelve candies and tried to sing, but the children were contrary to them.
After the workers' fourth time of trying to quiet them and settle them down, He came in, walking through the back doors. It looked like He was ready to leave, but when the children's workers saw Him standing at the back door ready to depart, they cried out, "Don't go! Please don't leave!"
When He stayed, their troubled hearts became peaceful.
Then Jesus talked to them, "Be of good cheer; it is I, be not afraid."
The children settled down. The commotion became calm. The shuffling ceased. The workers were amazed beyond measure, and marvelled.
He had brought peace.
-----------------------------------------------------
Paraphrase of Mark 6:45-50 by Joel Heimbecker, 1995
Sunday, January 31, 1999
Jewels for Keeping
The Jewels
He had searched a long time for the treasure. Soon now he would have the most valuable jewels in the world. He had paid the price and was now waiting for the delivery.
CP, for that is what every one called him, stretched out in his office and dreamed of holding the ruby, emerald, and sapphire. He could imagine everyone wanting to view the treasures that would soon belong to him. He wanted to protect them but then it would be a shame to hide their beauty.
CP decided to build a museum that would house these very expensive, one of a kind gems. They would be polished by the best in the field. "After all," CP thought, "you spend your life savings on getting these gems, then you want the finest and most experienced stone cutter to style them so the facets are shown to perfection - no matter the cost." The lighting would be designed so that it would dance off the stones. Their glory causing the walls and ceiling to sparkle. Everything just had to be right. Each small detail must be considered. The right back drop, the correct construction, climate controlled, soft music playing, enhancing the atmosphere so when people saw the ruby, sapphire and emerald their attention would be drawn to the creator of such exquisite jewels.
Construction began immediately. CP wanted to be ready when the gems arrived. People commented on the construction of the rooms and the layout of the future exhibits. The design and interior decorating were excellent. Once every thing was ready the gems arrived.
CP personally unpacked each jewel. First came the ruby. As he lifted it from the packing the sun flashed off the stone. The brilliance was much richer than he expected. In awe and crying with joy, CP held the ruby in his hands. Turning his eyes heavenward, he said aloud, "If You can make a stone so beautiful, how much more is Your beauty." CP knew that this ruby would be the first in the exhibit. To protect it from the oily, sticky hands of those who would want to touch it, CP put it in a glass case under lock and key.
The second jewel to be lifted from its crate was the emerald. CP had seen other emeralds but there was no comparison to the magnificence that he now held in his hands. He had thought maybe of putting all the stones in one dispay case. Now he knew that each gem needed to be put in a showcase of its own. As with the ruby, CP put the emerald into a glass case, placing it upon the velvet.
Now CP turned his attention to the last crate to be unpacked. It housed his sapphire. When he removed the lid the sapphire sparkled among the packing. Although the gem was delicate, its beauty and splendour was breathtaking. As with the others, the wonder of God who could create such matchless beauty hidden under the dirt caused tears to run down CP"S cheeks. After all, was he not himself a treasure that God had pulled from the ash heap? Once the sapphire was placed in its glass case, CP wanted to show the whole world.
Thinking about his treasure CP realized that he could not be at the museum all of the time. He had to sleep and eat. Who would protect the treasure? If it were not protected thieves could break in and steal his rare gems. He had to find somebody who would watch over the museum and the treasure. Someone he could trust. He would advertise for a security guard.
Idont Care
The first applicant arrived. CP took notice of his appearance. His hair was uncombed. His teeth were not brushed. It also appeared that he had not changed his clothes for many days. CP really wondered if this person even cared about himself, but remembering the old saying, "You can't judge a book by its cover!" CP continued with the interview.
CP asked, "Are you willing to guard my treasure with the best of your ability and even go as far as to give your life in protecting them?"
Idont Care wanted to know how much he would get paid.
CP responded "We haven't even talked about money, and you want to know your pay. Do you really care for my treasure?"
Idont stretched and said that if robbers would come he would let them steal the jewels after all he was more important than some pieces of stone. No, he was just looking for a job and if he could sleep on the job, now and then, that would be OK with him.
CP said, "You are not the person I have in mind for this position."
Idont Care shrugged his shoulders, "Well if you can't find any body else, keep me in mind. I can always use a few extra bucks." As Idont slunk out the door, he said, "See ya around!"
I. M. Proud
CP had to find someone to guard his valued treasures when he was not around. Maybe the next applicant would meet the standard. The applicant strode into the office with an air of confidence. He stuck out his hand and shook CP's hand vigorously. "Pleased to meet you, Proud's my name, I. M. Proud. I hear you are looking for someone to guard your little gems. Well I want you to know that you have got the right man."
I. M. Proud was wearing a finely tailored suit which in spite of its fit could not hide the bulging muscles. His sun bleached hair and tanned skin were rivalled only by the gold jewelry that flashed as he spoke. CP tried to talk but Proud just kept right on going.
CP finally went to his desk and sat down and pulled out a pad of paper. CP started to write a message on the paper. When I. M. Proud realized that CP was really not paying attention to him he started to pout and went and sat down in a chair.
CP looked up and with a kindly smile asked, "What would you do if robbers tried to steal my jewels? Are you willing to die in protecting them?"
I. M. Proud jumped to his feet. "Of course I would protect them. They wouldn't get hurt while I was on duty. Like I said I haven't seen a person yet who could beat me. As you can see on my resume, I have lots of ability."
CP made a quick phone call while I. M. Proud continued boasting about his accomplishments. Suddenly a child burst into the room eating cotton candy. The melted candy had stuck to his hands and to his face. The mixture of brown dirt with pink and blue candy made quite a spectacle. The little boy came and jumped up on Mr. Proud's lap and offered him a lick from the stick.
I. M. Proud jumped to his feet and the little lad landed on the floor in surprise. He was pushing the youngster away at the same time brushing off his navy blue pin stripe suit.
Joey, the little boy, started to cry. He had never been treated like that before. He thought that everybody that came to his daddy's office liked children. CP hurriedly came from his desk to check on Joey's condition. When he was sure that he was okay, just startled from being dropped on the floor, he said, "Mr. Proud I would like you to meet my son, Joey."
I. M. Proud was flabbergasted and for once was speechless. CP continued, "Thank you for coming to the interview. You are a man of many talents but because of your haughty self interests, I will not be able to use you to guard my treasures."
I. M. Proud spoke bitterly and with sarcasm, "I can see where I am not wanted. Good day CP. Cotton candy and a dirty face, how disgusting!" With a grimace, he walked out of the office.
When I. M. Proud was gone, Joey ran to his daddy, "Did I do okay, Daddy?"
CP grabbed Joey and swirled him around "You did great!" then both of them sat on the floor and ate cotton candy until both their hands were all sticky with the pink melted sugar.
CP wondered if he would ever find the right person to guard his valued treasure. The next person was waiting for an interview. CP washed his hands and face, straightened his clothes and called the next person in.
Ms. Lookat Me
Ms. Lookat Me came strolling into the office and, as she passed CP, she handed him her business card. Her card was a miniature of herself, exact and perfect in every way. Ms. Me was very fashionably dressed. CP was taken back by her natural beauty and poise. With such a pleasant appearance maybe this young lady could be the one chosen for the position.
"Ms. Lookat Me," CP started the interview, "tell me why you seek the position?"
"Oh, I just know that I am the one to look after your museum. I would show people the precious jewels and tell how beautiful they would be. I would organize tours, and advertise the hours that people could come and visit." While she spoke she fluffed her hair as though getting ready for a photo take. "I would make lots of money by charging people an entrance fee." She paused for a moment as if thinking.
"Of course, I would be the spokesperson for any media coverage, such as newspapers or television interviews."
CP had an idea. "Ms. Me would you excuse me for a moment" CP walked from the room and then hurried down the hall.
Soon an old man with thick glasses came limping into the room with a dust mop and cleaning supplies. "Hello there," he slurred in a thick, broken accent, "I am Peter, the Clean-Up Superintendent." After laughing at his own joke, he explained, "I am the janitor here." Sticking out his hand to shake Ms. Me's hand, he realized he had some grease on it and wiped them on his coveralls. Ms. Me turned her back on him with an expression of disgust.
"Would you help me move the desk a little. I need to clean under it." Peter inquired.
Ms. Lookat Me threw her head back and declared, "I am waiting for Mr. CP to return and I would hate to be seen helping you when he came back."
Peter finished cleaning by himself then hurried from the office. He entered the custodial room and in a few moments CP emerged from the door.
CP returned and as Ms. Lookat Me stood to her feet, he shook her hand. "Thank you for coming. I am sure that it must have been difficult to get away from your busy schedule. At this present time I cannot use you to guard my valued treasures. The mirror of the inner man reflects that you would be more interested in getting your picture taken, than in laying down your life in protecting my precious stones." He then led Ms. Me to the door. As she left the office she looked at her hand. It had grease on it.
Ms. Me realized too late that she had been a victim of her own vanity. Anger swelling in her mind and with a blush of embarrassment she strutted from the building thinking that it would be beneath her character anyway to look after some stupid rocks.
Mr. Willing N. Able
As CP stood at the window and watched Ms. Me walk briskly to the parking lot, he noticed another gentleman coming towards the building. With a walking stick in one hand and sneakers on his feet, this man had an ageless quality about him. As he came closer CP could see that the man seemed to be enjoying his walk.
Within a few minutes there was a knock on the office door. CP opened the door and there stood the gentleman with a smile on his face. CP invited him to come in and have a seat, and asked, "What can I do for you?"
"I am Willing N. Able, but you can just call me Willing. If you have not already found a person to guard your jewels, I am interested in applying."
CP asked "Mr. Able, why do you want to work for me?"
"I have had some years of experience in looking after the valuables of others. Although I don't pretend to know everything about high level security, I am willing to learn as I go. If you had some courses in mind concerning guarding the treasures, I would be ready to take them. I will give you my best effort to make sure that your gems would be safe."
Not in a boasting manner, Willing N. Able continued," I have always tried to work with excellence as my guiding motto, knowing that whatever I do is done as unto the Lord so that He would be pleased and honoured with my life. If you are interested, I can supply you with references of my past jobs and positions. I did my best for them and always tried to bring honour to the Lord."
CP was finding Mr. Able very interesting even refreshing to listen to. "Mr. Able,"
"Just call me Willing."
"OK, Willing, what would you do if robbers broke in and tried to steal my jewels?"
Mr. Able didn't hesitate to answer. "I would do everything in my power to protect your valuable treasures. If I died protecting them, then I would only be doing my duty but I wouldn't just lay down and let them walk over me." Getting excited as though he was actually living the scene he was describing, he began to wave his walking stick. "I would even use my stick if they got too close." Then with a big bang, he hit the desk. The noise startled both of them and they jumped. The bang brought Mr. Willing Able back to reality.
Willing laughed from embarrassment and apologized to CP for hitting the desk.
CP replied, "That's okay, no harm done. I was equally lost in your story."
Willing smiled, "My stick might make a big goose egg but my real help is in the Name of the Lord for He is my defender and shield. I do know that I would guard your jewels as though they were my very own. I have my own family and there is no price that is too great to pay in order to protect them."
CP stood up. "Willing, I would like to offer you the position as guide and guardian of my Ruby, Emerald and Sapphire. For the service that you will give and for your attitude you will be rewarded handsomely."
Mr. Willing Able beamed, "I can't thank you enough for giving me a chance. You won't be disappointed."
"I know." announced CP, "Welcome to the team."
" Come on I want to show you your charges."
As they started out the door Joey came charging in, "Look, Daddy, I just found a shiny black stone. This is the start of my treasure collection."
Willing bent down and looked at the gleaming hunk of common coal. "If it is fine with your daddy maybe we could find a place in the museum for your collection. Who knows it may contain a diamond." With that he gave Joey a hug and ruffled his hair.
CP with a deep settled peace in his heart and a smile on his lips walked down the hall toward the entrance to the museum. On one side was Joey, his most precious jewel, and on the other side a gem of a new friend. CP thought on a verse that he had read that morning. " I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him." Looking up, CP prayed, "Thank you Lord that you are the keeper of my treasures."
"Amen to that!" smiled Willing N. Able.
* * * * *
The Bible says we are treasures in earthen clay jars, therefore the children that we have in our families, in our classes and in children's church, are great and costly gems. Our responsibility is to guard and to guide these jewels until Christ comes. They need to be polished and honoured but protected from the thieves and robbers of our soul. As Children's pastors (CPs) who do we want to be in charge of these precious little ones?
The vain who just want to be in the spot light?
The proud and boastful in their own talents and abilities but who can not enjoy the sticky fingers of children?
The I don't cares, who are just in it for the money?
Or
Someone who is willing to be a servant unto Christ, who does his or her best?
Someone who is trainable and only settles for excellence?
Someone who has some experience, loves kids and are willing to lay down their lives for them, and whose dependence is in Christ Jesus and not in their own abilities?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) Joel Heimbecker, 1998
He had searched a long time for the treasure. Soon now he would have the most valuable jewels in the world. He had paid the price and was now waiting for the delivery.
CP, for that is what every one called him, stretched out in his office and dreamed of holding the ruby, emerald, and sapphire. He could imagine everyone wanting to view the treasures that would soon belong to him. He wanted to protect them but then it would be a shame to hide their beauty.
CP decided to build a museum that would house these very expensive, one of a kind gems. They would be polished by the best in the field. "After all," CP thought, "you spend your life savings on getting these gems, then you want the finest and most experienced stone cutter to style them so the facets are shown to perfection - no matter the cost." The lighting would be designed so that it would dance off the stones. Their glory causing the walls and ceiling to sparkle. Everything just had to be right. Each small detail must be considered. The right back drop, the correct construction, climate controlled, soft music playing, enhancing the atmosphere so when people saw the ruby, sapphire and emerald their attention would be drawn to the creator of such exquisite jewels.
Construction began immediately. CP wanted to be ready when the gems arrived. People commented on the construction of the rooms and the layout of the future exhibits. The design and interior decorating were excellent. Once every thing was ready the gems arrived.
CP personally unpacked each jewel. First came the ruby. As he lifted it from the packing the sun flashed off the stone. The brilliance was much richer than he expected. In awe and crying with joy, CP held the ruby in his hands. Turning his eyes heavenward, he said aloud, "If You can make a stone so beautiful, how much more is Your beauty." CP knew that this ruby would be the first in the exhibit. To protect it from the oily, sticky hands of those who would want to touch it, CP put it in a glass case under lock and key.
The second jewel to be lifted from its crate was the emerald. CP had seen other emeralds but there was no comparison to the magnificence that he now held in his hands. He had thought maybe of putting all the stones in one dispay case. Now he knew that each gem needed to be put in a showcase of its own. As with the ruby, CP put the emerald into a glass case, placing it upon the velvet.
Now CP turned his attention to the last crate to be unpacked. It housed his sapphire. When he removed the lid the sapphire sparkled among the packing. Although the gem was delicate, its beauty and splendour was breathtaking. As with the others, the wonder of God who could create such matchless beauty hidden under the dirt caused tears to run down CP"S cheeks. After all, was he not himself a treasure that God had pulled from the ash heap? Once the sapphire was placed in its glass case, CP wanted to show the whole world.
Thinking about his treasure CP realized that he could not be at the museum all of the time. He had to sleep and eat. Who would protect the treasure? If it were not protected thieves could break in and steal his rare gems. He had to find somebody who would watch over the museum and the treasure. Someone he could trust. He would advertise for a security guard.
Idont Care
The first applicant arrived. CP took notice of his appearance. His hair was uncombed. His teeth were not brushed. It also appeared that he had not changed his clothes for many days. CP really wondered if this person even cared about himself, but remembering the old saying, "You can't judge a book by its cover!" CP continued with the interview.
CP asked, "Are you willing to guard my treasure with the best of your ability and even go as far as to give your life in protecting them?"
Idont Care wanted to know how much he would get paid.
CP responded "We haven't even talked about money, and you want to know your pay. Do you really care for my treasure?"
Idont stretched and said that if robbers would come he would let them steal the jewels after all he was more important than some pieces of stone. No, he was just looking for a job and if he could sleep on the job, now and then, that would be OK with him.
CP said, "You are not the person I have in mind for this position."
Idont Care shrugged his shoulders, "Well if you can't find any body else, keep me in mind. I can always use a few extra bucks." As Idont slunk out the door, he said, "See ya around!"
I. M. Proud
CP had to find someone to guard his valued treasures when he was not around. Maybe the next applicant would meet the standard. The applicant strode into the office with an air of confidence. He stuck out his hand and shook CP's hand vigorously. "Pleased to meet you, Proud's my name, I. M. Proud. I hear you are looking for someone to guard your little gems. Well I want you to know that you have got the right man."
I. M. Proud was wearing a finely tailored suit which in spite of its fit could not hide the bulging muscles. His sun bleached hair and tanned skin were rivalled only by the gold jewelry that flashed as he spoke. CP tried to talk but Proud just kept right on going.
CP finally went to his desk and sat down and pulled out a pad of paper. CP started to write a message on the paper. When I. M. Proud realized that CP was really not paying attention to him he started to pout and went and sat down in a chair.
CP looked up and with a kindly smile asked, "What would you do if robbers tried to steal my jewels? Are you willing to die in protecting them?"
I. M. Proud jumped to his feet. "Of course I would protect them. They wouldn't get hurt while I was on duty. Like I said I haven't seen a person yet who could beat me. As you can see on my resume, I have lots of ability."
CP made a quick phone call while I. M. Proud continued boasting about his accomplishments. Suddenly a child burst into the room eating cotton candy. The melted candy had stuck to his hands and to his face. The mixture of brown dirt with pink and blue candy made quite a spectacle. The little boy came and jumped up on Mr. Proud's lap and offered him a lick from the stick.
I. M. Proud jumped to his feet and the little lad landed on the floor in surprise. He was pushing the youngster away at the same time brushing off his navy blue pin stripe suit.
Joey, the little boy, started to cry. He had never been treated like that before. He thought that everybody that came to his daddy's office liked children. CP hurriedly came from his desk to check on Joey's condition. When he was sure that he was okay, just startled from being dropped on the floor, he said, "Mr. Proud I would like you to meet my son, Joey."
I. M. Proud was flabbergasted and for once was speechless. CP continued, "Thank you for coming to the interview. You are a man of many talents but because of your haughty self interests, I will not be able to use you to guard my treasures."
I. M. Proud spoke bitterly and with sarcasm, "I can see where I am not wanted. Good day CP. Cotton candy and a dirty face, how disgusting!" With a grimace, he walked out of the office.
When I. M. Proud was gone, Joey ran to his daddy, "Did I do okay, Daddy?"
CP grabbed Joey and swirled him around "You did great!" then both of them sat on the floor and ate cotton candy until both their hands were all sticky with the pink melted sugar.
CP wondered if he would ever find the right person to guard his valued treasure. The next person was waiting for an interview. CP washed his hands and face, straightened his clothes and called the next person in.
Ms. Lookat Me
Ms. Lookat Me came strolling into the office and, as she passed CP, she handed him her business card. Her card was a miniature of herself, exact and perfect in every way. Ms. Me was very fashionably dressed. CP was taken back by her natural beauty and poise. With such a pleasant appearance maybe this young lady could be the one chosen for the position.
"Ms. Lookat Me," CP started the interview, "tell me why you seek the position?"
"Oh, I just know that I am the one to look after your museum. I would show people the precious jewels and tell how beautiful they would be. I would organize tours, and advertise the hours that people could come and visit." While she spoke she fluffed her hair as though getting ready for a photo take. "I would make lots of money by charging people an entrance fee." She paused for a moment as if thinking.
"Of course, I would be the spokesperson for any media coverage, such as newspapers or television interviews."
CP had an idea. "Ms. Me would you excuse me for a moment" CP walked from the room and then hurried down the hall.
Soon an old man with thick glasses came limping into the room with a dust mop and cleaning supplies. "Hello there," he slurred in a thick, broken accent, "I am Peter, the Clean-Up Superintendent." After laughing at his own joke, he explained, "I am the janitor here." Sticking out his hand to shake Ms. Me's hand, he realized he had some grease on it and wiped them on his coveralls. Ms. Me turned her back on him with an expression of disgust.
"Would you help me move the desk a little. I need to clean under it." Peter inquired.
Ms. Lookat Me threw her head back and declared, "I am waiting for Mr. CP to return and I would hate to be seen helping you when he came back."
Peter finished cleaning by himself then hurried from the office. He entered the custodial room and in a few moments CP emerged from the door.
CP returned and as Ms. Lookat Me stood to her feet, he shook her hand. "Thank you for coming. I am sure that it must have been difficult to get away from your busy schedule. At this present time I cannot use you to guard my valued treasures. The mirror of the inner man reflects that you would be more interested in getting your picture taken, than in laying down your life in protecting my precious stones." He then led Ms. Me to the door. As she left the office she looked at her hand. It had grease on it.
Ms. Me realized too late that she had been a victim of her own vanity. Anger swelling in her mind and with a blush of embarrassment she strutted from the building thinking that it would be beneath her character anyway to look after some stupid rocks.
Mr. Willing N. Able
As CP stood at the window and watched Ms. Me walk briskly to the parking lot, he noticed another gentleman coming towards the building. With a walking stick in one hand and sneakers on his feet, this man had an ageless quality about him. As he came closer CP could see that the man seemed to be enjoying his walk.
Within a few minutes there was a knock on the office door. CP opened the door and there stood the gentleman with a smile on his face. CP invited him to come in and have a seat, and asked, "What can I do for you?"
"I am Willing N. Able, but you can just call me Willing. If you have not already found a person to guard your jewels, I am interested in applying."
CP asked "Mr. Able, why do you want to work for me?"
"I have had some years of experience in looking after the valuables of others. Although I don't pretend to know everything about high level security, I am willing to learn as I go. If you had some courses in mind concerning guarding the treasures, I would be ready to take them. I will give you my best effort to make sure that your gems would be safe."
Not in a boasting manner, Willing N. Able continued," I have always tried to work with excellence as my guiding motto, knowing that whatever I do is done as unto the Lord so that He would be pleased and honoured with my life. If you are interested, I can supply you with references of my past jobs and positions. I did my best for them and always tried to bring honour to the Lord."
CP was finding Mr. Able very interesting even refreshing to listen to. "Mr. Able,"
"Just call me Willing."
"OK, Willing, what would you do if robbers broke in and tried to steal my jewels?"
Mr. Able didn't hesitate to answer. "I would do everything in my power to protect your valuable treasures. If I died protecting them, then I would only be doing my duty but I wouldn't just lay down and let them walk over me." Getting excited as though he was actually living the scene he was describing, he began to wave his walking stick. "I would even use my stick if they got too close." Then with a big bang, he hit the desk. The noise startled both of them and they jumped. The bang brought Mr. Willing Able back to reality.
Willing laughed from embarrassment and apologized to CP for hitting the desk.
CP replied, "That's okay, no harm done. I was equally lost in your story."
Willing smiled, "My stick might make a big goose egg but my real help is in the Name of the Lord for He is my defender and shield. I do know that I would guard your jewels as though they were my very own. I have my own family and there is no price that is too great to pay in order to protect them."
CP stood up. "Willing, I would like to offer you the position as guide and guardian of my Ruby, Emerald and Sapphire. For the service that you will give and for your attitude you will be rewarded handsomely."
Mr. Willing Able beamed, "I can't thank you enough for giving me a chance. You won't be disappointed."
"I know." announced CP, "Welcome to the team."
" Come on I want to show you your charges."
As they started out the door Joey came charging in, "Look, Daddy, I just found a shiny black stone. This is the start of my treasure collection."
Willing bent down and looked at the gleaming hunk of common coal. "If it is fine with your daddy maybe we could find a place in the museum for your collection. Who knows it may contain a diamond." With that he gave Joey a hug and ruffled his hair.
CP with a deep settled peace in his heart and a smile on his lips walked down the hall toward the entrance to the museum. On one side was Joey, his most precious jewel, and on the other side a gem of a new friend. CP thought on a verse that he had read that morning. " I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him." Looking up, CP prayed, "Thank you Lord that you are the keeper of my treasures."
"Amen to that!" smiled Willing N. Able.
* * * * *
The Bible says we are treasures in earthen clay jars, therefore the children that we have in our families, in our classes and in children's church, are great and costly gems. Our responsibility is to guard and to guide these jewels until Christ comes. They need to be polished and honoured but protected from the thieves and robbers of our soul. As Children's pastors (CPs) who do we want to be in charge of these precious little ones?
The vain who just want to be in the spot light?
The proud and boastful in their own talents and abilities but who can not enjoy the sticky fingers of children?
The I don't cares, who are just in it for the money?
Or
Someone who is willing to be a servant unto Christ, who does his or her best?
Someone who is trainable and only settles for excellence?
Someone who has some experience, loves kids and are willing to lay down their lives for them, and whose dependence is in Christ Jesus and not in their own abilities?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) Joel Heimbecker, 1998
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