What an Incredible Blessing . . .

Have you ever spent the evening with a group of people whose sole purpose for gathering together was to bring about a reenactment, through a church production, of the final days of Christ's life on this earth? On many occasions I've been on the receiving end as I sat in the audience but tonight, as preparations were being made for opening night, I was privileged to have my first 'behind the scenes' experience.

I was the proverbial fish out of water as I stood back and watched the masters at work. I marveled at their vision and creativity. With the props gathered and flowers perfectly arranged, the vision began to unfold. In their mind's eye they literally saw a marketplace come to life as they looked at 3 empty tables, some dried garlic and a collection of pottery.

As I stood back and took a moment to enjoy the experience, it occurred to me that from time to time you'll hear someone say that they don't need to be part of a church family. They can watch TV and learn everything that they need to know about God without going to church. Well, after the evening that I just had I would have to challenge that way of thinking. At home you don't see the smiles of the costumers who seem to delight at the opportunity of outfitting the 'crowd' with traditional props and garb one more time. You don't encounter the laughter of the kids who stand back and watch to see how 'funny' dad will look when he is decked out in a shepherd's 'dress'. And when you're home without the relationships that come when you're part of a church family, you miss the incredible experience of being in the midst of cooperation and camaraderie and pure discipleship.

Tonight as people gathered together to close out the evening we were privy to the efforts of the 'crowd' as they rehearsed the scene that brought chills to our bones. You know the one . . . Pilate is holding court and after being unable to find any fault in Jesus he asks the crowd "What crime has this man committed?" to which they reply "Crucify him! Crucify him! Crucify him!"

It is then that you realize fully the importance of the cooperation and camaraderie. It is then that you understand why the men, women and children of this area need to see the fruit of our evening together. And it is then that you are eternally grateful that you have this church family to call your own.

In great thanksgiving, for all of Your blessings, Lord, may our efforts bring glory to Your Name Jesus.
Amen and Amen.
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