This summer, as we take some time off to relax and enjoy some downtime, let us remember this little story, and let our activities and thoughts remain God-centered to His honour and glory.

A little boy visited his grandmother on their farm. He was given a slingshot to play with in the woods. He practised but couldn’t hit the target. Getting discouraged, he headed back for lunch. As he walked back he saw grandma’s pet duck, out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly and hit the duck square in the head and killed it.

He was shocked and grieved. In a panic, he hid the duck in the woodpile, only to see his sister watching. Sally had seen it all, but said nothing.

After lunch that day grandma said “Sally lets wash the dishes” but Sally said “Grandma Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen.” Then she whispered to Johnny, “Remember the duck?” So Johnny did the dishes.

Later that day grandpa asked if they wanted to go fishing. Grandma said “I’m sorry but I need Sally to help with supper.” Sally smiled and said “Well, that’s all right because Johnny told me he wanted to help.” She whispered again “Remember the duck?” So Sally went fishing and Johnny stayed and helped.

After several days of Johnny doing his chores and Sally’s he couldn’t stand it any longer. He went to grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck. Grandma knelt beside Johnny and said “I know, I was standing at the window and saw the whole thing, because I love you I forgave you. I was wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave out of you.”

Thought for the summer: whatever is in your past, whatever you may have done (lying, stealing, anger, not forgiving, bitterness, or hatred, etc.) whatever it is, Jesus Christ was standing at the window of heaven and saw or heard the whole thing. He wants you to know He loves you and will forgive you. He wonders how long you will let Satan make a slave out of you.

Remember, God not only forgives you, he forgets! Ask for God’s forgiveness today and start your summer free from guilt and condemnation. This way you can truly enjoy your summer. May God bless you all and have a great, relaxing summer.