Glass art, Pop-Tarts, and political machinations
Welcome to the Play-by-Play. Every other week, we’re taking three recent stories from our God’s WORLD News publications and breaking them down to help you spark conversation in the home or the classroom.
As you move from discover to explore to discern, the themes go deeper. But any of these stories can work for conversation with the whole family. We’ll also include a Conversation Kickoff to help you break the proverbial ice if your kids aren’t ready to dive deep right away.
This week, we’re noticing a theme of legacy. Look for ways the people in the story have left a legacy behind them—or are creating one now.
He paints with light.
🧠 What do we need to know about this story?
Narcissus Quagliata is a glass artist. He creates glorious work by blending glass frit to make new and varied colors.
❤️️ How does this story affect our understanding?
What makes Mr. Quagliata’s art different from other stained glass? How does he use God’s creativity to fuel his own creativity? Think about the theme of art. Why do people create art? What makes art beautiful? What does that tell us about God?
✋ How does this story inspire our actions?
Make some art together as a family! Using thin paper or sheets of plastic, you can make your own “stained glass” collages and hang them on your windows.
Thanks for the Pop-Tart, Mr. Post
🧠 What do we need to know about this story?
William Post died on February 10 at the age of 96. He helped invent Pop-Tarts.
❤️️ How does this story affect our understanding?
Look at our theme of legacy. What do Mr. Post’s children remember about the type of man he was? What will matter most about us to the people we leave behind when we die? Consider the theme of hard work. Did Mr. Post’s Pop-Tarts taste delicious on the first try? What did it take to perfect the toastable pastry?
✋ How does this story inspire our actions?
Get creative in the kitchen! Invent a yummy pastry together as a family. Combine your favorite flavors and ingredients.
Conversation Kickoff! What makes up your perfect breakfast? Pancakes? Eggs? Fruit? Pop-Tarts? Last night’s leftovers?
Russian Officials Announce Navalny's Death
🧠 What do we need to know about this story?
Alexei Navalny was jailed for his opposition to Russian President Vladimir Putin. On February 16, Russian officials announced that he died in a remote prison.
❤️️ How does this story affect our understanding?
Why do most observers assume foul play in Navalny’s death? Look for the theme of leadership. What sort of leader is Vladimir Putin? How does he treat his political opponents? How does a good leader treat political opponents? Again, notice our theme of legacy. What gave Navalny courage to stand up to corruption? How can other Russians carry on his work?
✋ How does this story inspire our actions?
Look up courage in the Bible. Can you find examples of courageous people standing against corrupt leaders? Think of ways God might be calling you to take a step of courage in your life.
The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him! — Proverbs 20:7
Together, let’s get the conversation started. He has equipped you for the work.
