“Today is my eighth birthday,” Cita told her classmates Mario, Manny and Teo, as they all walked home from school. “My mom prepared a simple merienda, would you join us?” she asked them.
“Oh, happy birthday, Cita!” the three boys said in unison.
When the group arrived at Cita’s house, the front gate was suddenly swung open with a chorus: “Happy Birthday, Cita!” Her Nanay, Tatay, and little brother were all smiles. “Come in boys, let’s celebrate!” Cita’s mother called out.
On the dining table was pancit, and eight pink balloons were tied to the chairs.
“Let’s thank the Lord for this day,” Cita’s Tatay said, and so they bowed their heads in prayer. “Now let’s eat!” he announced.
“Follow me,” Cita beckoned to her classmates.
“The food is over here! Where are you going?” her dad asked.
“To wash their hands, of course,” Cita’s mom piped in, smiling. “Remember, before one touches food, one’s hands must be clean. You taught Cita that.”
“Right. I was so excited that I forgot to wash my hands!” Cita’s father laughed.
“Your exact words were: ‘Hand washing is the quickest way to prevent germs from spreading and to keep us from getting sick,’” Cita’s mom said, laughing too.
* * *
Prayer:
Lord, may I always remember that keeping myself clean is the right thing to do. Amen.
Memory verse:
“Wash yourselves and make yourselves clean. Stop doing the evil things I see you do. Stop doing wrong!” Isaiah 1:16
“Quiet Time with Mateo – 52 Weekly Devotions for Children” is published by OMF Literature, Inc. and available at leading bookstores.