It was the last day before Christmas break and a warm one. I was wary of what mood the kids were in that morning as their sub teacher. You never know how it’s going to go and every day is different.
It started with one of the kids making the President’s table and she ran out of the room. It was Kendra; a shy girl with her hair all tied up in braids. We all stood to say the Pledge of Allegiance and I sang to them the Star Spangle Banner.
Next, I checked her lesson plans and, to my delight, I saw that we would be watching the Polar Express; one of my favorite Christmas movies. First, they had to do 5 different Polar Express puzzles. Most of them finished quickly except for two boys who were behind the rest all day. However, I patiently helped both of them to keep up.
After this, the special education teacher came in to teach them their fractions. She fussed a lot and was very exacting, but the kids liked her. Next, we ate lunch. Then, we came back to the room and finished the fraction packet and prepared to watch the movie.
I had Ms. Burrows from next door turn on the Smart Board and she got it on the right channel for me. Then, like magic, the movie began. Everyone changed into their pajamas and got their blankets and pillows to lie on the floor. I gave each of them a golden ticket as per the teacher’s instructions. Midway through the movie, I gave them a Christmas Tree Little Debbie cupcake and a few white chocolate pretzels. I ate a few pretzels myself.
Finally, the movie was done. We met together to discuss it and put some strips in sequence. I asked them a few questions about it. We discussed the truth and reality of God and Santa Claus. Finally, I asked them how we got the idea of giving gifts. I was expecting them to say “the three wise men”. However, instead, Kendra raised her hand eagerly.
“I know! I know!” She yelled, her shyness temporarily overcome. “God gave us the gift of Jesus, his Son.”
It was a good answer and the wisdom of Third Grade shined through!
And her answer was so true. Jesus is the greatest gift ever and we must live our lives in the light of his love. He was born in a manger, worshipped by lowly shepherds and died on the cross for our sins. What other person in history ever came even close to Him?
So have a great Christmas! Keep believing…and trust in Him to see you through another year!
Love,
Laura
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