Show Notes
Read: Hebrews 13:5-6
Daniel tightened his helmet and straddled his all-terrain vehicle.
“The gas tanks are full,” his older brother Tim shouted over the engine roar. “Let’s tear up the trails.”
Daniel kick-started his engine and revved the motor. “Oh yeah. I have a need for speed.”
“Follow me,” Tim called. He hit the gas, spinning the tires and shooting dirt and gravel everywhere.
They steered their ATVs onto the old freight train route, which had long been abandoned. The wood ties and steel rails had been removed years ago, leaving miles of continuous trails. After several miles, they entered a secluded clearing with a dozen old abandoned train cabooses nearly hidden from view. They both skidded to a stop, cut their engines, and pulled off their helmets.
“It looks like a caboose graveyard,” Daniel said.
Tim nodded. “Let’s explore.”
They set their helmets on the ATVs and cautiously walked toward the cabooses.
“You think there’s anything—or anyone—living inside them?” Daniel asked.
“We’ll know in a minute,” Tim said. “The first caboose has a broken door. Let’s go inside.”
Tim pushed the door. It creaked as it opened, sounding like a haunted house. “This is so cool,” he said.
They checked each caboose. They were all identical, with fading paint, cracked windows, and sagging doors. Daniel scratched his head. “Why would anyone abandon them?”
Tim picked up a piece of rotting wood. “Somebody felt they weren’t important anymore.”
“I’m glad that Jesus doesn’t feel that way about us,” said Daniel.
Tim tossed the wood into the tall grass. “The Bible says Jesus will never abandon us.”
Daniel smiled. “No matter what trail of life we’re on!”
“That’s right,” Tim said. “He loved us enough to die on the cross for our sins. We’re always important to Him.”
Daniel looked at the darkening sky. “We’d better head back. But I hate to just leave these things. I wonder if I can adopt a caboose.”
Tim laughed. “Have fun getting it home!”
–Matt Shoemaker
How about you? Have you ever experienced the feeling of being abandoned? People can do hurtful things that make us feel like we’re not important, but Jesus promises never to abandon those who trust in Him. He died for you and rose from the dead so you could have life with Him forever! No matter where you go or what you do, He promises to always be with you. You are important to Him.
Today’s key verse: Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you. Psalm 9:10 (NLT)
Today’s key thought: Jesus will never abandon us