adapted from John 8:1-11 by Shannon Cherry

Joey Rizzuto arrived early for his science study period. As he brushed past Mr. Christopher’s desk, he saw it. The corner of a computer disk poked out from underneath assignments and memos. The label read: scifinal.exm.

I guess it’s true what they say, Joey thought. The early bird does get the worm.

With a quick glance over his shoulder, he grabbed the disk, slipped it into his textbook and sauntered to his seat. The door opened behind him.

“Look what we have here, Dr. Egghead, I presume.” Dave, the class president, said as he elbowed his companion.

“Jason, have you ever known Joey to show up early for study hall?” Dave asked.

“Looks suspicious if you ask me,” Jason agreed.

“How would you know if I ever came early?” Joey challenged. “Or do you get reports from your friends who sign in for you when you’re late?”

“Who asked you, Joey?” Dave snapped.

Partway through the study period, Joey got ready to leave. His plan was to make a copy of the disk in the computer lab and return it to Mr. Christopher’s desk before it was missed.

“Where do you think you’re going?” Dave charged.

“I’ve got a dentist appointment,” Joey said.

“Yeah, I’ll bet you do.”

Joey grabbed his books and started for the door. As he passed Dave’s desk, something jarred his arm and sent everything flying. Books, papers, pens—and a small black computer disk scattered across the floor.

“Hey, Dave, look at this!” Jason called, as he picked up the disk. “Rizutto’s got a copy of the final exam!”

“Is that so?” Dave’s eyes gleamed.

Minutes later, Joey stood before Mr. Christopher as the class gathered around.

“We caught him trying to smuggle this out of the room!” Dave waved the disk under Joey’s nose. “I see,” Mr. Christopher said.

“So it’s obvious Joey planned on cheating,” Dave started. “That’s an automatic fail and a two-week suspension.” The students started to murmur.

“Well, you obviously have a strong sense of right and wrong,” Mr. Christopher said.

“You bet we do!” Jason said.

“So I think Joey’s penalty should be determined by all of you.”

Great, Joey thought. I’m done for.

“You can choose from among yourselves who will submit both the charges and the penalty,” Mr. Christopher continued. “I’ll go along with whatever you decide.”

Immediately an intense discussion erupted as to who should be in charge. Joey swallowed hard, dropping his head in shame. He couldn’t let them see the tears that stung his eyes.

“I haven’t finished,” Mr. Christopher said over the excited buzz. “One of my favorite books says the judge must be the one person whom you know to be totally innocent of breaking or even bending one of the school rules.” Mr. Christopher scanned the group, making eye contact with each student.

“Someone who has never cheated on a test or an assignment . . . never copied someone else’s notes. . . never helped themselves to school supplies. . . and never skipped a class.”

Gradually the room grew silent.

“The one who has perfectly abided by school rules will be the one who has the right to charge Joey.” Mr. Christopher turned, faced the blackboard, picked up a piece of chalk and began to write.

Joey studied his shoes. He could hear plenty of whispering, a few muffled groans, some sighs and the shuffling of feet in the direction of the door.

“Joey, where’s your judge?” Mr. Christopher asked.

“I guess everyone left,” he answered as he looked around the room.

“If there is no one left to charge you, then I won’t either.”

A wave of relief washed over Joey. “But Mr. Christopher, what about . . .” Joey struggled to put the words together.

“I won’t suspend you, but I can’t pass you.” Joey’s heart sank.

“I’ll help you study for the final exam, but it’s too late. I don’t believe you know the material well enough. I’ll be teaching this course during the summer, and I expect to see you in every class.”

“Yes, sir. I’ll do my best,” Joey stammered, then hurried toward the door.

“Joey?” The boy stopped in his tracks and slowly turned around.

“No more cheating,” Mr. Christopher said. “When you need help, come and see me, okay?”

“I will,” Joey said. “And Mr. Christopher, do you think you could show me your favorite book? I’m wondering what else it says.”

“Be glad to,” Mr. Christopher smiled.

	Q: Why did the dog lay on its back with its feet sticking in the air? A: It was trying to trip birds. Amy S., 11, Illinois Clubhouse Jr. Click here to subscribe