Send a text

The Shoebox Kids are studying Ruth, but Mrs. Shue has a surprise. They’re putting on a play. Costumes, sandals, and Bible-times names fill the room as Maria becomes Ruth, DeeDee becomes Naomi, and Chris tries to figure out how to play two different characters. After the laughter settles, the class starts talking about something harder: being teased. Chris shares how kids made fun of his real name, Cristóbal, and how he finally shoved one boy after getting pushed too far. The kids compare stories and wonder what Ruth might have done if people called her names.

Mrs. Shue opens the Bible to Jesus’ words in Matthew 5 about loving your enemies and praying for those who hurt you. Chris realizes the “missing piece” was prayer. Jesus was there to help, but he didn’t ask. He calls it “almost a footprint,” and decides that next time, he’ll ask Jesus for strength to be kind, even when someone is cruel.

Talk about it:

• What happened to Chris at recess, and why did he get so angry?
• What does Jesus say we should do when people hurt our feelings?
• What are some kind choices you can make when someone teases you?
• When could you pause and pray before you react this week?

Visit our website: kathyskidsstorytime.org

We’d love to hear from you.
To reach us quickly, click the “Send us a text” link at the top of the episode description.

Or write to us by mail:
Kathy’s Kids Storytime
PO Box 44270
Charlotte, NC 28215-0043

Send a text

When a famine strikes Israel, Naomi’s family moves from Bethlehem to Moab. Years later, Naomi loses her husband and both sons, and decides to return home. Ruth, Naomi’s Moabite daughter-in-law, refuses to leave her and makes a beautiful promise: “Where you go, I will go… your God will be my God.” Back in Bethlehem, Ruth gathers leftover barley to help them survive and ends up in the field of Boaz, a kind relative who protects and provides for her. In time, Boaz marries Ruth, Naomi’s family is cared for, and Ruth becomes part of a very special family line that leads to King David. A tender story about faithfulness, kindness, and choosing God.

Talk about it:

• Why did Ruth choose to stay with Naomi even when it was hard?
• How did Boaz show kindness to Ruth in the fields?
• What does Ruth’s promise teach us about loyalty and trusting God?
• Who can you show kindness to this week?

Visit our website: kathyskidsstorytime.org

We’d love to hear from you.
To reach us quickly, click the “Send us a text” link at the top of the episode description.

Or write to us by mail:
Kathy’s Kids Storytime
PO Box 44270
Charlotte, NC 28215-0043

Send us a text

Willie wants to fit in with the most popular boys at school, but Max and Lucas enjoy teasing others. After they trip up Gary and insult Candy, they plan a cruel “pet day” prank—letting Carmen’s mouse out to be chased by a cat—and pressure Willie to help. Willie prays, thinks about how he’d feel if it were his dog Coco, and quietly says “no,” even though it costs him their friendship. In Sabbath School he adds a “Jesus footprint,” thankful for courage to do what’s right. A real-life story about peer pressure, kindness, and the strength God gives to choose good friends.

Talk about it:

• Why did Willie want to be friends with Max and Lucas, and what did he notice about how they treated others?
• What helped Willie say “no” when he felt pressured?
• How can you tell the difference between a real friend and a hurtful friend?
• What’s one kind choice you can make for someone at school this week?

Visit our website: kathyskidsstorytime.org

We’d love to hear from you!
To reach us quickly, click the “Send us a text” link at the top of the episode description.

Or write to us by mail:
Kathy’s Kids Storytime
PO Box 44270
Charlotte, NC 28215-0043