Wishing for a Mother

To Sabbath School teachers: This story is for Sabbath, September 3.

By Andrew McChesney

R

aí is a boy who wished for a mother.

Sadly, Raí’s mother died when he was just 7 years old in Brodowski, Brazil. Raí was left with his father.

Raí loved Father very much. But sometimes it was difficult for the little boy to live alone with a big, strong man and no gentle, caring mother.

Raí had to learn to take care of himself. His father was old and busy and did not have time to teach him many things.

Raí missed the love and care of his mother.

Then Raí got a new mother. Father found a new wife and got married. But, sadly, just a year later, Raí’s new mother also died.

Raí was a sad boy.

It seemed like he would never have a mother again.

Then Raí became a Pathfinder. Someone told him about the Pathfinder club at the Seventh-day Adventist church, and he decided to become a member. Raí enjoyed participating in Pathfinder activities with the other children. He loved listening to stories about Jesus. He found new friends whom he could count on, and he gave his heart to Jesus.

But Raí’s heart still ached. He longed for a mother.

As Raí spent time with the Pathfinders, he formed a special friendship with the director of the Pathfinder club, a big, strong man named Mr. Alexandre. Raí especially liked Mr. Alexandre’s wife, Mrs. Claudiane. He decided that she would be his new mother.

Mrs. Claudiane felt a mother’s love for Raí, and she accepted him as her son. Mr. Alexandre and Mrs. Claudiane already had two young children, João Pedro and Ana Clara, they accepted Raí as their new brother.

Little by little, the new family lovingly welcomed Raí into their home. He became the eldest son, with his own room, closet, and clothes. He even got braces for his crooked teeth, which was his dream.

Today, Raí still lives with Father and loves him very much. His new family taught him the importance of keeping the Fifth Commandment, which says, “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you” (Exodus 20:12, NKJV). Therefore, Raí takes turns living with Father and with his new family.

Father, who is quite old now, is happy that Raí has a new family. He knows that God gave the new family to Raí so Raí could receive the care that he couldn’t provide.

Today, Raí loves God with all his heart. Through the Pathfinders, God fulfilled the wish. He is a boy with a new mother — and much more. He has a new family.

Part of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering this quarter will help open a new church in Raí’s hometown of Brodowski. A new church in another part of the city will provide an opportunity to open another Pathfinder club where even more children can learn about Jesus. Thank you for planning a generous offering on September 24.