Karen's mom gave the children pillows to sit on before a big TV screen. They were all eagerly awaiting the program "Everyday Heroes" by the Global Geographic Network.
A lady announcer appeared on the screen. "Today, our everyday hero is a young man from the Philippines! Apolonio Sanchez!"
The screen showed the Philippine flag being blown by the wind and then, a picture of the hero of the day appeared.
"Manong Popoy!" the children clapped.
"Apolonio or Popoy helps his parents make lanterns to sell," the announcer said, while the screen showed Popoy surrounded by all kinds of beautiful lanterns.
"Ooooh!" this kids swooned.
"But on weekends, Popoy invites children to their home and teaches them how to make lanterns - for free! He provides them all the materials, also for free!"
The kids pointed to the screen, which now showed children making parol. "That's me!" "Look, Teo, you're beside me!"
When the screen showed hundreds of yellow parol hanging from a huge tree, the kids exclaimed, "I made that!"
On camera, Manong Popoy said, "I hope to teach Filipino children to be productive. They should grow up knowing how to create something with their hands and eventually earn from it."
"So, Popoy, can you teach me how to make a parol, too?" the announcer joked.
"Yes, ma'am, anytime!"Popoy smiled.
"Thank you, Philippines, for Popoy Sanchez!" the announcer ended, with the Philippine flag behind her.
***
Prayer:
Lord, please bless the everyday heroes in my country. Amen.
Memory verse:
"The person who works his land will have plenty of food. But the one who chases useless dream isn't wise." Proverbs 12:11
“Quiet Time with Mateo – 52 Weekly Devotions for Children” is published by OMF Literature, Inc. and available at leading bookstores.