Peabody Prays
By Jean Boonstra
Have you ever wondered if God has a new plan for your life—one that’s different from how things are right now? Peabody does, and God answers him!
Peabody stopped his car just outside of his office. He didn’t want to go inside to work. “I wonder if they’d even notice if I didn’t show up today,” he grumbled to himself.
Peabody put his hand on the car door handle to open it, but then he stopped. Instead, he closed his eyes and prayed. “Lord, you know how I feel. I just need a change. I don’t know what, but You do. Please show me what your plan is for my future. Amen.”
Peabody grabbed his briefcase and walked through the front doors of Bilsby Builders. His boss, Mr. Bilsby walked towards him.
“Peabody, you’re late!” Mr. Bilsby said.
Peabody looked at his watch, confused. “I am?” he asked.
Mr. Bilsby grinned. “No, you’re not late,” he said laughing. “I’m just giving you a hard time. You’ve never been late for work a day that you’ve worked here.”
Peabody laughed nervously at his boss’ joke.
“How are the sketches for our latest project coming along,” Mr. Bilsby asked.
Peabody opened his briefcase and carefully lifted out the penciled drawings of a building. He’d worked hard on the sketches.
Mr. Bilsby studied the drawings. “Nice design work,” he said. “This is going to be a first-class building.”
“Thank you,” Peabody answered.
“Pass these sketches on to the architects for approval,” Mr. Bilsby said handing the sketches carefully back to Peabody.
“Yes, of course,” Peabody answered politely, but not enthusiastically.
Mr. Bilsby studied Peabody’s face for a moment. He could see that something worried his employee, but he wasn’t sure what it was. “Peabody?” Mr. Bilsby asked.
“Yes,” Peabody answered.
“You didn’t study architecture in college did you?” Mr. Bilsby asked. “What did you study?”
Peabody shifted from foot to foot, hesitating to answer. “Oh, we don’t have to talk about that right now,” he finally said, avoiding the question. “I have to deliver these sketches.”
“Peabody!” Mr. Bilsby called after him, “are you still happy working for me?”
Peabody stopped walking and turned thoughtfully towards his boss. “Sir, you’ve given me all kinds of opportunities here. I’ve risen in this company faster than anyone else without training. My family and I are thankful for the work.”
Mr. Bilsby crinkled his eyebrows together. “I know you’re thankful. But, are you happy?”
Peabody didn’t know how to answer. “I’ll get these sketches to the architects now,” he said and turned to walk down the hall.
Mr. Bilsby watched him walk away. “Ah, Peabody,” he said to himself. “One of the best workers I’ve ever had. I just wish that he was happy here.”
Is Peabody happy at Bilsby Builders or does God have a new future and mission in mind for Peabody? Listen to Season 12 Harmony Corner to learn more!
