Bursting Bubbles

"I hope I'm good enough to play in an all-star game someday," said Ryder as he left the ballpark with his dad and sister. "Maybe I'll even make it into the Baseball Hall of Fame!""I'd rather sing the national anthem before the game," said Ann. "Famous singers have a lot more fans than baseball players do."All the way home, the children debated whether singers or athletes were more popular and famous. "Why do you think it's so important to be famous?" asked Dad."So everybody will like you and talk about how good you are," said Ryder."And then no one would say, 'Ann who?' They'd all know my name!" added Ann.When they arrived home, they found Mom in the backyard blowing bubbles for two-year-old Harper. They all laughed as they watched Harper's puzzled expression whenever she got a bubble in her hands--only to have it burst and disappear."Those bubbles remind me of the fame you kids were talking about," said Dad. "Bubbles have a shimmering beauty that's very captivating as they bounce about. But then, when you try to catch one in your palm, it bursts. Popularity and fame are like that--they don't last forever. But because we trust in Jesus, we're part of God's kingdom, and His kingdom is eternal, meaning it lasts forever and ever.""But what about baseball players in the Hall of Fame?" Ryder asked. "They're remembered forever.""They may be remembered for a long time, but they can't enjoy their fame after they've died," said Dad. "Wanting to be famous isn't necessarily wrong, but Jesus is the only one who can give us eternal joy and satisfaction. He conquered death on the cross so that we could be part of His eternal kingdom, and one day, when He returns, the whole world will see His power and glory and bow before Him. Whether you become famous or not, He knows who you are, and His love for you is enough. Use the talents He's given you for His glory, not your own." "You're right, Dad," Ryder said. "I may not ever be in the Baseball Hall of Fame, but I know I'll be with Jesus forever!"Ann nodded. "And I'd rather sing for Jesus than on a stage in front of a thousand fans."–Phyllis I. Klomparens