I’m back reading in the classroom. For years I read in Mrs. Romo’s 1^st Grade classroom at Case Elementary, twice a month on Wednesday mornings. It was great fun. And I felt like I was supporting Mrs. Romo, education, and the kids in the classroom.

             So I’m back reading in the classroom. This time it will be in the Head Start class at 1^st Church. The class has 13 kids 3, 4, and 5 years old. We love having them here. The teachers and kids are great. I’m glad to once again support the teachers, education, and the kids.

Story telling is part of what it means to be a human being. We tell and listen to stories. It’s how we find meaning and make sense of life. It’s how we come to know others and share about ourselves. From the beginning of time when our earliest ancestors gathered around a fire, they told stories.

Unfortunately there always have been troubling stories. These stories are about selfishness, anger, racism, fear, and hopelessness. These stories cripple how we see ourselves, our world, and our future. People and communities are worse because of them. There are many being told today.

But there are also good stories being told. These stories are about courage, generosity, kindness, patience, and hope. These stories build character, families, and community. They encourage us to our better selves. People and communities are better because of them.

As Christians we believe that some of the best stories are found in the Bible. The story of Abraham is about trust. The story of Elijah is about courage. The story of the Good Samaritan is about kindness. The story about the Prodigal Son is about the deep grace of God. Some writers consider that story one of the best short stories ever told. And the story of the death and resurrection of Christ is about hope in the love and power of God when we too face evil, sin, and death. For 25 years at 1^st Church I’ve made it a point to tell and teach Bible stories. And I’ve encouraged all the staff who have worked with kids and youth to make sure to do the same. If we do nothing else, we need to tell the good stories of our faith.

And so I’m back to reading stories in the classroom. With all the bad and troubling stories being told today, I’m pleased to be part of something better. And by the way, the Head Start teachers at the church are looking for more readers. If you would like to find out more, contact Nancy in the church office.

Glad to Be a Storyteller, Glenn