MINE!

I heard someone say that you spend the first few years of your child’s life trying to get them to speak and then next many years trying to get them to shut up!

It is funny how language develops in children. We are filled with joy the first time we hear them say something that sounds even remotely like “mommy” or “daddy.” We brag on them, we call our friends and family to tell them our little bundle of joy just said his or her first words. But once that gate has been opened, watch out! Because there is no telling what is going to come out!

There is one word that all kids seem to learn early. It’s not necessarily a ‘bad’ word, but it isn’t a very nice one. And it is a word that always comes out loud and proud, and always when other people are around, especially when they are playing with other babies.

The word? “MINE!”

Sharing is something all kids have to be taught. It just doesn’t seem to come natural to us.

But sharing is something vital to us as Christians. Sharing is the foundation of fellowship.

The word fellowship in the Bible is more than just gathering together in the back of the church building, it involves sharing. Sharing food, sharing stories, sharing our lives and sharing our faith. It is a gathering of people who have common interests and who share things.

Yet that childhood desire to keep things to ourselves is still present.

Our Father doesn’t want us to be stingy. He wants us to share. He wants us to invite people into our homes and share our food with them. He wants us to look for those in need and share with them the things we have. He wants us to find those who have no hope and share with them the hope we have. He wants us to have true fellowship.

Think about it!