I walked into my Sunday school class not-quite-ready to teach. My weekend had already been tiring, my voice felt strained, and my lesson plan needed more prep. Yet none of that mattered when “my” amazing first and second-graders arrived, bounding into the room. (Note: these precious kids belong to wonderful families, but I refer to them as “my kids,” at least for the class.)

With their energy and excitement lifting my sagging activity level, we used big hand motions as we sang songs. Then we walked around the room to review memory verses and commandments posted on the wall. Incorporating kinesthetic activity helps me engage these energetic kids, but it also deals with my difficulty in sitting still. After moving around, we were ready to sit and focus on the lesson.

Later, the kids were encouraged to draw a picture or write to God. This is six-year-old Bennett’s drawing:

As Bennett explained the dream about God that he had drawn, his craft project became my lesson on childlike faith. His drawing and explanation convicted, humbled, and inspired this old Sunday school teacher. Do my dreams and thoughts center on God? Would I proclaim my love for God like a banner above my head? Does my face glow with adoration as I describe my God?

Lord God, thank you for teaching me through these Sunday school children. Please teach me to love you in a childlike way, with enthusiasm and devotion. Forgive me for my ingratitude and indifference. Never let me forget who you are and what you have done for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(Note: this is not my Bennett, my now-grown son who lives across the country, although the name and energy level of Sunday school Bennett makes me smile with nostalgic memories.)