Grade School Music/Art Programs are the Best!

Grace had her school music program at the end of February and I was so thankful to be able to be there.  Shortly after Christmas, Grace told me that she had gotten a speaking part in the program and would need to learn her lines!  For a first grader, this is a very big deal!  She was also practicing the music, which thanks to her Chrome Book, she had at home.  She told me that she was the Narrator part and opened the show.  Until I actually saw the program, I had no idea what that actually was.  I was one surprised Grandma during that program!

There were eight classes of kids - four first grade classes and four second grade classes.  The gym was packed with parents, grandparents and various sisters and brothers. It was "Standing Room Only" as the late comers had to stand against the wall!  There was some "technical difficulties" and all of those kids (I estimate around 200 kids) were standing on those risers, looking out at the sea of faces, getting more and more anxious and nervous for the program to start.  After about ten minutes, they had the kids sit down on the risers.  After another ten minutes they were finally able to begin the show.   And then Grace walked to the microphone in the center of the stage and started the show.  Not only did she start the show saying all of her lines perfectly, but she stayed at the microphone for the entire opening number.  This brave little girl sang,  danced,  did all the hand motions.  And she did them well!  

I for one, didn't have any idea that she was going to be doing this!  I think all of us were a bit surprised to see her solo presentation. The rest of the program was very cute and all of the kids did a wonderful job.  I know exactly how much work goes into a big show like this, thanks to Gwen's years as a music teacher!  

Susie's mom and dad Steve and Sherry were also there, so Grace had a big cheering section!  Keeping a wild two and half year old entertained for an extra 20 minutes during the technical difficulties was the hardest part!  Jimmy did enjoy the singing once it started!

After the performance, the Art Fair was in the hallway.  Grace was especially anxious to show us her art work that was on display.  She knew exactly where they were hanging, which was a very good thing since it was wall to wall people in those hallways!  

I can't help but reflect on how grown up and truly wonderful this precious little girl is!  Before each of my grandchildren were born, I prayed for them and received a glimpse of what Jesus might have in store for them.  Out of those prayers, I created a "name frame" for each of them.  Grace's was in my mind as I drove home.  

For the first time I saw just how these words might come to life in Grace's lifetime.  She does love music and sings all the songs she learned in Vacation Bible School, as well as all the other songs she knows.  This music presentation just flowed out of her.  The smile on her face was certainly an expression of joy as she preformed.  I can't wait to see how Jesus brings all these words into and through Grace in the years ahead.  

 Jesus, thank you for children that remind us to smile and laugh.  Holy Spirit, continue to grow Grace into a Jesus worshipper who will reach the world with her songs.  Thank you for joy that overtakes sadness.  Give all of us the willingness to do hard things.  Help us to have courage and boldness like these little children.  Thank you Jesus for family!  Amen