It Shows

 

By Wayne R. Scott

JUST about any stage play will bring a cast together: the glue is long nights, unexpected problems, extensive time in odorous backstage enclosures. You still have these in biblical shows, but the glue often takes a different form. During the tech and cement weeks of “The Disciples of Jesus,” a cast member invited the cast and crew to meet before the rehearsals to pray.

This cast member was wise and knew that our battle was not a physical one–lights, sets, sleep deprivation–but a spiritual one–“cosmic powers” and “spiritual forces” (Eph. 6:12). The cast gathered, composed of men, women, and children, and the glue set: some sang hymns and others thanked and praised God for who he is.

Two Saturdays ago, before the “The Disciples of Jesus” performance, Tony Slusser stood and told the cast and crew a story. A family member of his, who was also a retired pastor, traveled all the way from the East Coast to see the play. “After the show,” Tony explained, “I approached him and said, ‘you only see the tip of the iceberg here.'”

This is Tony’s first production with us. We cast him alongside his son, Michael Slusser, and we are so glad we did! Tony exemplifies the signs of a life lived after Christ.

“You have no idea,” Tony continued, “the depth of feeling, the depth of being sold out for Christ that’s among everyone in this ensemble.” At this, Tony said the retired pastor looked at him and responded, “You didn’t have to tell me that. It shows.”

“It shows.” Great choice of words. We always hope that our productions at LifeHouse show and do not simply tell our stories–a rule of visual storytelling and a sign of LifeHouse’s quality, but that our productions draw the curtain back on the spiritual power sustaining us…that is the sign of God’s blessing and sovereignty.  “The Disciples of Jesus” is based upon the greatest story ever told. In a manner of speaking, it’s our job as performers, crew, staff, and board members to pray the Lord would move…and then get out of the way.

The ever-present desire of our staff and volunteer storytellers to place Christ and his glory at center stage has created a culture at LifeHouse unlike other places. You notice it when you enter and thank God for it when you leave.

We’re also so thankful for our season passholders and regular guests. Thank you for your support and prayers. We hope you’re encouraged to know God is absorbing the spotlights for himself at LifeHouse Theater, and he is using you as one of his  instruments.

If you have your own Tale of Dramatic Difference from the stage at LifeHouse Theater, we’d love to hear it.