Once upon a time in a small cottage near a Forest in England lived an elderly couple named, Mr.and Mrs.Barrett. They loved walking in the Forest watching the children playing on the swings and slides made especially for them in the glades.

One particular day, Mr Barrett noticed a young boy sitting on the grass on his own crying, so he walked over to see what was wrong. He asked the boy his name, the boy answered; John.Mr Barrett asked what was troubling the young lad! John replied that a certain boy kept bullying him at school, and he was afraid to tell anyone! During the time this conversation had taken place, Mrs Barrett had walked over, her husband told her the story! It would help you if you spoke to your father and mother, she said kindly to John. I know you are afraid, but I am sure that they would understand, and help you. She then put her arm around him! Mr Barrett nodded in agreement! You will feel allot better if you shared your burden with them, like you have with us, he said. John began to feel a little better, listening to Mr and Mrs Barrett and how sincere they both were! I will tell my Parent's John said very boldly, I don't feel so afraid since I have met you both! John looked around, the forest looked nicer, the leaves in the trees were gently moving in the breeze, the birds were tweeting; John was beginning to feel better already!

This story can teach us, whatever our age is, ALWAYS be ready with a listening ear for someone in need, like John, WE can make all the difference to the person when we have the anointing of the Holy Spirit upon us which is able to break every yoke

"...The yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing". Isaiah 10:27 (KJV).

This story can also teach us if we are fearful like John share it with others and most of all with our Heavenly Father because, "Perfect love casteth out fear". 1 John 4:18 (KJV).

Written by Rev. Arthur J. Milton