Immediate Marshmallows

by Vince Amblin — published on Oct 16, 2025

[Jesus said,] “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see all these things, you know that [it] is near, at the very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place.” Matthew 24:32-34 (NRSV) 

My daughter’s brain works differently from mine. I am a planner. An expert at delayed gratification. I got an A++ on the Marshmallow Test. (The marshmallow is probably still sitting there today!) Her, not so much.  

Often, I spend my days trying to get her brain to work like mine. Wouldn’t you rather tackle that homework now so it’s done? She wouldn’t. Don’t you want to practice your taekwondo kicks so you’re ready for the belt test? She doesn’t. 

And slowly, a team of experts is trying to teach me: the future doesn’t exist for her in the same way it does for you. She isn’t driven by the fear of eventual consequences or the promise of distant rewards. For her, this moment is everything. 

Which sounds familiar. Jesus is always telling folks: the end is near. The kingdom is coming. Don’t worry about tomorrow. 

It leads him to make all kinds of impractical suggestions, er, commandments: Give to all who ask of you. Don’t store up your treasure. Lay down your life for a friend. Or the worst: Do not worry. 

Act without considering the consequences? Give without counting the cost? Live in the moment with no concern for what may happen next? That’s just not how my brain works. 

Luckily, I have someone to teach me. 

Prayer
Thank you for giving us into each other’s care.

This article can be found on the United Church of Christ’s website under Daily Devotionals.