Little Sunday Story: The Sunrise

The Sunrise

by Ashley Karges

Jan 25, 2026

Matthew 4:12-23                             

Themes:

- God’s hope and goodness is all around us, even in darkness.

- God shines a light of love and peace onto everything He touches.

Malulabelle sat in front of the window with a cup of hot cocoa. It was early morning. The sky was still dark, like a black, inky canvas.

Today was going to be a full day. Malulabelle had a spelling test in the morning, and a math test in the afternoon. She felt worried, like little butterflies fluttered around in her belly.

She poked at the marshmallows in her mug. They looked melty and sad – exactly how she felt too. She sighed, then closed her eyes, to pray. “Dear Jesus, I am sleepy today. I have a butterfly belly. There are parts of my day I’m not excited about. Can you help?”

Malulabelle took a sip of her creamy hot chocolate. She gazed out the window. A glimmer of light appeared on the horizon. The sun was coming up. Moments later, glowing rays of sunshine beamed across the ground. Sunlight stretched and touched every part of the landscape.

Malulabelle lifted her face. She imagined sunbeams kissing her cheeks!

“Jesus, your light fills my face. And fills my heart! Thank you for reminding me that you are always a part of my day.”

Malulabelle smiled and added fresh marshmallows to her cup. They looked bouncy and happy. And she was too.

Have you ever felt like butterflies fluttered in your belly? This is how it can feel to be nervous or afraid. In these moments, telling Jesus how you feel can help. Jesus delights in hearing from you. He is always with you, ready to take your worries and shine a light in your heart.