The Party

"Happy third birthday, Jake," Elizabeth said, handing her younger brother his present. It was beautifully wrapped up in superhero paper. "Hope you like it."They were having a party outside in the garden for him with some families from church. Jake glanced up before giving a loud shriek and yelling. He left the package on the table and ran inside. Dad followed him."What have I done? Why doesn't he want my gift?" Elizabeth asked, blushing. "I saved up my pocket money to buy him something special. Now he's crying and run off!""Darling, you haven't done anything," Mom said. "He's tired. You know he doesn't like change. It's all been too much for him having so many people around. It's not your fault."Elizabeth couldn't concentrate on the conversations around her. Her thoughts rattled with the memory of Jake and his outburst. Why did I even bother? she thought crossly, taking the unopened gift and throwing it on a chair. Soon Dad calmed Jake down and brought him outside again. Elizabeth struggled to taste the party food she usually loved and was glad when all the visitors had left. Dad took Jake upstairs to get ready for his bedtime story and prayers. "Are you okay, sweetheart?" Mom asked, picking up the unopened gift. "Dad and I are both proud of you and your efforts to make this a special day for your brother.""I'm disappointed, I guess." Elizabeth sighed. "I know feeling overwhelmed is part of Jake's condition, but I wish he'd opened my gift. I was so excited about it.""I know, sweetheart. Your brother is tired, but tomorrow he'll be refreshed and still have your present to look forward to. I'm sure he'll treasure it." Mom gave her a hug. "Life can feel overwhelming for all of us sometimes, but like Jake, we still have wonderful gifts from God that we can enjoy. He fills our lives with blessings, and no matter what we're going through, we can always enjoy the greatest gift of all--the love and presence of Jesus, who understands how we feel and promises to help us through our struggles."Elizabeth smiled as she thought about the gift from God she could enjoy every day--a relationship with His Son, Jesus.-Cindy Lee