Bible Reading: Mark 14:3-9

"Our youth group is helping out at a preschool program at church next week," Charlotte told her mother as she helped weed the flower beds. "Bria has a great voice, so she's going to teach the kids songs, and Eduardo's a lot of fun, so he's in charge of games." Charlotte sighed. "I'm just helping with check-in."

"Well, that's an important part of the program too," Mom said. "They need to make sure all the kids are accounted for and direct them where to go."

Charlotte shrugged. "I really want to help out and serve the Lord--I just wish I had more to offer."

"Charlotte, that's not--" Mom was interrupted by a squeal from little Billy, who was hurrying across the lawn toward them.

"I make present for Mommy!" he called. Clutched in his soil-stained little hands was a small pot half-filled with dirt. Billy had stuck a dandelion into the dirt. Charlotte grinned as Billy ran toward them with a huge smile on his face.

Mom turned to Charlotte. "It's a dumb present, isn't it?" she asked quietly. "That old pot he used is cracked and dirty. And that's just a weed! He should have brought me roses from the florist."

Charlotte looked horrified. "Mom! How would he get them? He's only three! You're not going to tell him that, are you?"

When Billy reached them, Mom bent down and took the flower pot he offered. "Thank you, Billy Boy! I'll put this right in the middle of our dining room table." She gave him a hug and then turned back to Charlotte as Billy ran off. "Actually, I love Billy's gift, even if it's not perfect. I know he brought it to me because he loves me. And when we offer gifts to God, with real love in our hearts, don't you think He's pleased and accepts them too--no matter how big or small they seem?"

"You're talking about me helping with check-in next week, aren't you?" asked Charlotte.

Mom nodded. "I'm glad Billy brought me the gift he was able to give me. That's what God wants us to do too. He wants us to do what we can to serve Him out of love and gratitude for all He's done for us."

–Tanya Ferdinandusz