For the last 3 Easter seasons, our family has been involved in our church's production of "The Jesus Story" - a play showing the ministry, death, burial and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Although the involvement has been primarily on the part of Dave and myself, this year Emily decided to take a part in the ministry too.
I'm not a forefront person when it comes to these type of productions. I prefer to be in the background. So, my "position" has been in the area of backstage small props. Of course, it only seemed natural to have Emily join us as a part of that crew. Although very willing to help in small props, after the second performance of the play, Emily told me that next year she did not want to be backstage but out on stage as a part of the crowd. I was in no way disappointed with her desire to go from backstage to on stage but I admit I was surprised.
Other than school programs, where the kids practice during school time, Emily has shown no desire to be a part of any program. Her last "formal" program was a Christmas program at our church, and although she enjoyed being in it, she told me she wouldn't be doing it again because there are just too many practices. I've learned with Emily not to push her. When it comes to sports, programs, activities, we've always been of the thinking to have the kids try it once and then let them make the decision regarding the next time. So, yes, I was suprised at her declaration of wanting to be "in" the play next year. And, yes, I did inform her that it would involve practices she would need to attend.
As the following week of performances occurred, Emily continued to tell me of her plans for next year. Our last two performance were going to be the next Thursday and Good Friday. When I was cleaning up from our perfomance the Sunday prior, Emily came running to me all excited saying she was going to be in the play. Of course, I said "next year" because I've only heard her tell me this now a thousand times. She replied "no, Good Friday". I was like "what?" Well, Emily expressed her desire to a dear friend who knowing Emily saw how much she wanted to be a part of the crowd and was going to see about making it happen this year. What was supposed to be a possible Friday performance turned into Thursday and Friday performances and let me tell you Emily was over the moon.
Of course, she asked me a million questions about details before that first performance but once she was in that make-up chair she was no longer thinking about me.
Thankfully she had friends who were already in the play that could guide her throughout the scenes she was invloved in. I can't tell you how much my heart swelled when I caught my first glimpse of her from the sidestage. This is my girl! She is a part of a huge ministry telling the Good News of Jesus. There is nothing like that moment when a parent sees their child serving their Savior.
Well, Emily loved being a part of the onstage crowd and is making plans for next year and just so you know she is "okay" with all the practices she will have to be a part of.
It is so amazing to be a part of a ministry for the furthering of the Kingdom of God but it is even more amazing when your children desire to be a part of it too. Matthew did his part selling DVD's of one of this season's early performances.
Of course, the biggest "thank you" goes to Emily's Aunt Debbie (my sister friend) who saw the desire and excitement of a young lady and did what she could to make her desire a reality!
Our little girl has come so far and nothing makes it more special than seeing her want to walk the path that God has for her.
This Easter season has meant so much with the growing of our kid's in their faith. Our prayer is that God will continue to touch their hearts and move them in the direction He desires for them.
As always, thanks for stopping by!
