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For Heaven's Sake

Sermons aren't the only way to learn something in church. Sometimes the Lord designs unexpected, and unforgettable, object lessons.

That's what happened on a recent Family Sunday, a monthly service that includes kids.

During announcements, we have an "award ceremony," where children's accomplishments, great and small, are honored. We have honored a boy who rescued a drowning child from a pool; a 12-year-old whose team won the state girls' softball championship; three little girls for being helpful big sisters to their new baby brother; and many others for good attitudes and kind behavior. The children are given a big hand, an award certificate, a badge of honor, and a present, usually a new toy.

One month, I conferred with our children's minister, and we chose Frances to receive a "Sweet Heart Award." Frances is a 10-year-old cherub who makes homemade cards for folks. Her ready smile gives no hint of how tough her young life has been.

Since Frances lives with her unemployed grandparents ...

March
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