Teaching the Children: The Ten Commandments

And God said, “I am the Lord thy God,

which has brought thee out of the land of Egypt,

out of the house of bondage…”

Exodus 20:1-2

On the first Sunday of each month, I teach the music rotation in the Sunday School classes for grades K-5 at the church where I work.  There is a new lesson each month, and the children rotate around several workshops on the Bible story.  The materials are very expensive, and we recently had the opportunity to purchase some used sets from another church.  Last Tuesday, I went to get my materials for Sunday and discovered two things:  the theme for the month is the Ten Commandments, and whoever owned the set before us forgot to return the music portion to the folder.  I had absolutely nothing.

I decided to approach the commandments from a single word:

Respect

After deciding on this theme, I went looking for children’s songs about the commandments.  I found one – with antiquated words and unknown melody.  Hmm, not using that!  I decided to begin the session with I’m In-right, Outright, Upright, Down-right Happy all the Time as a good warm-up, then use I Am a “C” – a good message about the Third Commandment.  Sadly, there was nothing else to be found.  Without power, I couldn’t troll the internet from something appropriate.

Finally I sat down and, using the melody of the children’s song, Bingo, wrote a new song - utilizing the antiquated, 1940-something children’s song as a guide.  It turned out a little wordy, but it worked.  We had a wonderful discussion that I am going to share with you over the next few days.  There’s nothing like a kid to bring something close to your heart.  I may be leading the session, but I am fully aware of just who is teaching whom!

Today’s Prayer Needs

Those still without power on the East Coast – thankfully, not still me!

Jim and Pam and the children as they adjust to life in a new home

Dulcie and family as they adjust to life without their precious son

Joel – for wisdom and maturity at college

All of the students across the U.S. who are returning to school