One of the perks of teaching at a first through 12th grade Christian school is that I get to be the guest chapel speaker for elementary and high school periodically throughout the year. (I'm almost always the middle school chapel speaker, since I am the head teacher of the middle school.)  Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to do a program for the youngest kids in the school when I was the first through sixth grade chapel speaker.

I like doing these shows for a couple of reasons.  First of all, it gives me a chance to interact with students who will one day make the transition to my class.  Secondly, it's a kind audience on which to try out new material.  Finally, of course, I feel I have something to offer these students through my show.

After opening with "Go Light your World", a routine done in a total blackout that includes the multiplying candles illusion as well as light up poi.  This isn't exactly a new routine, but it is one I don't do often.  I then went into "The Devil is Bad", my new numbers juggling routine.  This was only my second time doing this one.  Later in the show I did appearing and disappearing candles for the second time ever.  I included a few older routines as well.

My overall theme for the morning was the Rich Young Ruler, and the lesson Jesus tried to teach him about giving up everything to follow him.  Of course, I didn't tell the kids they needed to sell all their possessions, but rather challenge them to think about all they have as God's.  We are merely stewards of what He has entrusted to us.  Therefore, when He wants us to give something up or use something in a way we hadn't planned, it is much easier to do so with this mind set.

Several times since the show, some of these little guys have approached me in the halls to thank me for the show.  I am equally grateful for the chance to have been their speaker that morning.