Ellie and the Little Lantern
Kindness — inspired by the Good Samaritan · Luke 10:25–37
Ellie carried her little lantern down the quiet road, looking for someone who needed a little light. The wind was cool, and the stars were just beginning to wake up. Around the bend, she found old Mr. Pickles, who had dropped his bag of apples. One had rolled into the grass, and another had tumbled near a sleepy rabbit. Ellie set down her lantern. ‘Don't worry, Mr. Pickles,’ she said softly. ‘I'll help you find them all.’ Together they searched, the lantern glowing warm and gold. When the last apple was safely back in the bag, Mr. Pickles smiled the kind of smile that makes you feel like the whole world just got a little kinder. Ellie picked up her lantern and walked home, where Mama was waiting. ‘Tonight I shared my light,’ Ellie said. Mama hugged her tight. ‘That,’ she whispered, ‘is what Jesus asks us to do.’ Ellie yawned and snuggled in. Outside, the stars finished waking up, and the night was very, very kind.
Discuss together
Who is someone in our day today who needed a little kindness?
A bedtime prayer
Dear God, thank you for the chance to share light with others. Help me be kind tomorrow, just like Ellie. Amen.
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