Laura is six years old, and her mom says she is already a big girl. She has invited Jesus into her heart and follows Him. But she has a problem: when she lies in her bed at night in the dark, she is afraid. She would like the light to be left on in the hallway, the door left open, or Mom to stay with her until she goes to sleep. But her parents have said that is not possible.
This evening, the family read the Bible and prayed together as usual. Afterward, Mom put Laura to bed, tucked her in warmly, and kissed her goodnight. When Mom wanted to leave the room, Laura held on tight and said: “Please, stay here. I’m scared of the dark.” Mom was surprised and asked what Laura feared because she would be in the room next door with the baby.
Laura didn’t know exactly what to say. She was afraid because she couldn’t see what surrounded her in the dark. She imagined that there might be a big spider in the room. Mom hugged her tightly and said: “Oh, Laura! You don’t need to be afraid. I’ll leave the night lamp on until you fall asleep. We’re all here; that should help you. But more importantly, trust Jesus, our good Shepherd! He always looks after you, day and night, and never leaves you alone. Just like the shepherd with his flock of sheep that we saw in the meadow.” Then Mom switched on the lamp, wished Laura a good night, and left the room.
The little night light glowed softly, and Laura thought of the shepherd with his dog guarding the sheep. The shepherd took particularly good care of the newborn lambs. He carried them into the cattle wagon so that they were warm and well cared for. Laura thought: “This shepherd took really good care of the little lambs. And Jesus, my good Shepherd, takes even better care of me. He loves me so much that He even gave His life for me!” Laura folded her hands and said quietly: “Thank you, Jesus!” Then she fell asleep contentedly.
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