Miriam Babysits Moses

Miriam Babysits Moses

(Read Exodus 2:1-10)

“Bethany,” said Mother, “please entertain Josh for a little while.”

Bethany frowned as she glanced at her baby brother. “But, Mom, I’m reading!” she whined, turning her attention back to her book.

“Reading will have to wait,” said Mother. “Isn’t Stacy coming over today? I thought maybe the two of you could take Josh for a walk.”

“Stacy had to babysit,” Bethany said. “I feel sorry for her. She has to take care of her little sister all the time.”

“She doesn’t seem to mind,” Mother replied. “She seems happy, and it’s a good thing to help your mother.”

Bethany squirmed. She tried to change the subject. “Stacy’s mother calls her ‘Little Miriam,’ Mom. Why does she do that?”

Mother smiled. “Do you remember the Bible story about Moses?” she asked. “The King of Egypt was afraid the Israelite slaves would outnumber his people and take over his kingdom. He commanded all the boy babies to be thrown into the river. But Miriam’s mother trusted God to save baby Moses.”

Bethany nodded. “She put him in a little basket in the river, didn’t she? And his sister Miriam watched to see what would happen.”

“Right,” said Mother. “And when the king’s daughter found Moses, Miriam got his own mother to take care of him.”

“So that’s why Stacy’s mother calls her ‘Little Miriam,’ ” said Bethany. “It’s because Stacy helps her mom take care of her baby sister just like Miriam helped her mother.”

“That’s right,” agreed Mother. “And when Moses grew up to lead God’s people out of slavery in Egypt, I’m sure Miriam was really glad she had a part in taking care of him.”

Bethany looked over at Josh, who was sleeping soundly now. “Mom, I’m sorry about grumbling when you ask me to help,” she said. She smiled. “Who knows—maybe Josh will grow up to be somebody famous, too.”

Mother smiled. “Thank you, Miriam,” she said. NIM

HOW ABOUT YOU?

Do you appreciate how much your parents do for you? Do you grumble when they ask for your help? Remember this—when you help your parents, you’re obeying Jesus.

Be a Willing Helper

MEMORIZE:

“You children must always obey your parents, for this is what pleases the Lord.” Colossians 3:20