Anna Farkas - Christian Science Sentinel | March 24, 2008
Sunday School has become one of my favorite places to be during the week. I always come away from my class with answers to problems or just a higher perspective that makes me feel more energized and joyful.
I love singing hymns with my classmates because it makes me feel connected to everything and everyone. I also really like finding deeper meaning in the stories from the Bible. Our class talks together about the words and what they mean to us. I always find ideas that relate to what is going on in my life. All my past and present teachers have been helpful whenever I’m having trouble with friends, illness, or when one of my pets is hurt. The teachers make Sunday School a kind of reality check for me.
For example, about a year ago, I had been having problems with a boy in my acting group. He would call me names and chase me during breaks. One time, he dumped a cup of water on my head. I was upset and wasn’t handling it too well. When the production we’d been rehearsing was over, I figured my problem would be gone. But then I signed up for another show, and found out that he was going to be in it too. I was sure I would have a horrible time.
That Sunday, I told my Sunday School teacher about my worries. She didn’t talk about what was wrong with him (or me), or offer strategies for fixing things. Instead, she suggested I think about this beatitude: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matt. 5:9).
I thought about how being in the play gave me the opportunity to express myself as a peaceful child of God. So I prayed to keep my focus on my relationship with God. I made a conscious effort to trust more in His care and be loving toward everyone. In a short while, my interactions with the boy became more positive. We’ve actually become good friends now.
Even though there are many distractions that could keep someone from going to Sunday School (like doing things with friends, or wanting to stay in bed), I’ve found that it’s a great place to find inspiration for the week.