The schoolhouse had chairs arranged at the back for the parents, while the children’s desks had been moved closer to the front of the room. Gloriana could see JT’s curly head bobbing back and forth while he chatted with the boys on either side of him. Finally, the schoolmaster appeared and started the festivities off with a blessing.

“Lord our God, King of the universe, we give glory and honor to You and You alone. You have given us great hope and love in the gift of Your Son, Jesus. We thank You for Him and all that He has done on our behalf. Let our words be of thanksgiving at all times. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Several voices affirmed the amen before Mr. Nelson continued by introducing the youngest of his charges.

Gloriana sat beside Luke while they listened to the children sing and speak about Christmas. Mr. Nelson had put together a lively program focused on enjoying the time of celebration but not forgetting that it was to honor the birth of Christ.

Sally seemed particularly to enjoy the music. She perked up from her nap when the children began to sing and watched with wonder from Gloriana’s lap. When the music ended, the baby seemed perplexed.

Mr. Nelson got up and began to speak about the school year. “I have a special presentation to make this year to one particular young man. He gave of himself in a way that went above and beyond anything he was required to do. Many of you might have noticed how nice the school desks look. That is in thanks to Master Womack.”

The severe-looking schoolmaster motioned JT to the front of the room. “JT refinished each of the desks for us. He stayed after school and sanded them and then stained them. They look new again, and we are very grateful. In consideration of that, I created a new award—an award of service. And this one goes to Jeremiah Thomas Womack.”

Gloriana remembered all of JT’s late nights arriving home. He had asked her to trust him and promised he wasn’t being naughty. Tears came, and she let them flow without shame. Her little brother had made her so proud.

“Did you know about this?” Luke whispered.

“No, did you?”

His gaze met hers. “No. He’s quite the young man.”

JT received his certificate and smiled a toothy grin out at the audience before Mr. Nelson let him reclaim his seat with the other children. Gloriana was grateful he made no mention of JT’s carving on his desk in the first place. There was no need to shame the boy and then honor him.

When the program concluded, JT rushed over to Gloriana and Luke, waving his certificate. “Now you know my surprise,” he declared. “But I didn’t know I was going to get an award. Just look! I’ve never had an award.”