For several days I have looked back at many of Liam’s drawings and have wanted to write a story for them, creating short pieces of fiction. So, I began the first short with one of his first grade drawings this afternoon. His art has changed over the last two years, but his heart for art, for music, and for Jesus hasn’t changed. Chris and Liam’s relationship also inspired the short. I hope you enjoy the children’s short fiction piece below.
“Little Mike’s Big Moment”
a very short story
Illustrated by Wil “Liam” Greene Sullivan
Little Mike loved to follow his dad, Big Mike, everywhere. His favorite time of the week was Sunday morning at their little country church. He would sit on the very front pew, swinging his legs and watch as his dad would preach with a booming voice full of love for Jesus.
At home, Little Mike often practiced just like his dad. He would stand on a chair, hold up a wooden spoon like it was a microphone, and say, “Jesus loves you!” His mom would smile, and his sisters would giggle. However, in his heart, Little Mike dreamed of the day he could stand behind the real podium at his sweet, country church.
One Sunday morning, his heart beat fast—thump, thump, thump—as he felt extra brave. While the congregation opened their hymnals and the organ played softly, Little Mike slipped out of the pew. Step by step, he climbed the wooden stage stairs. His hands felt sweaty, but he kept going.
Finally, he stood behind the tall podium, looking out at rows and rows of faces. The microphone loomed in front of him. His knees shook. His voice wobbled.
“I… I…,” he stuttered.
“Jesus….Jesus said,” he stammered.
The church grew so quiet you could hear the ceiling fans spin.
Then, Little Mike took a deep breath, puffed out his chest, and spoke with all the moxie he could muster:
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” —John 16:33
The words rang through the sanctuary like music. Some people laughed with joy. Some wiped tears. Others clapped and cheered.
Everyone agreed—Little Mike’s courage was a sermon all by itself.
That day, the little boy with the big heart learned something powerful: you’re never too small to share your dream of telling the most important message of all—the love and hope of Jesus.
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The Aging English Major 