with the kids

We’re spending a few weeks on the Holy Spirit for Treasure Box time. Last week the kids in our house church heard the story of the Holy Spirit coming at Pentecost and made pinwheels so they could “see” the wind blow. This week we made a short visit to Galatians 5 and the Fruit of the Spirit. As we spent time on the Fruit of the Spirit last summer, I thought it would be neat to affirm which fruits I see in the children.

Taking an idea from this special celebration done at my kids’ school every year, I decided to identify one fruit I’ve seen in each child.  I printed a Scripture to go with each and attached everything to a fruit twist as a treat.

Here’s what each kid received:

MC – Patience. This toddler boy has a speech delay and shows enormous patience communicating with adults and others who have trouble understanding him sometimes. What a guy!
SG – Love. Another toddler who loves on everyone. Her smile is delightful and she’s a sweetheart!
LK – Goodness.  A 2nd grader and one of our group’s “big kids.” She cares a lot about doing the right thing and shows an ability to know what’s good and what’s not. She might not always be  good, but goodness matters to her!
EC – Kindness. This Kinder-girl is a great friend. I see her each week doing her best to be kind to the other kids in our home church and it pains her to see anyone being unkind.
AG – Faithfulness. A Kinder-boy. I can count on him to listen well to the story every week and remember what he heard. There’s a steadfastness about him that is remarkable to see in such a young kid.
JK – Joy. The oldest in the group at 10. Always smiling. Always everyone’s friend. Her heart is light and she brings that joy to those she’s around.

My hope is that this affirmation will take root in their hearts and continue to grow. And I also hope to sow seeds among the children, and in our group in general, of a desire to call out the where we see God working in each other. Because we all need that encouragement.