One thing about live drama is that it is a challenge. (so they tell me)  To get all the pieces to come together just right is hard work.  When it happens it is satisfying and exciting.  Each night of a production no one knows what will go right and what will go wrong, that is the fun of it.  If something goes wrong how quickly can it be corrected, how fast can the actors think on their feet and make it appear seamless?  I think that is why my family enjoys drama so much…it is a high for them to be a part of something bigger than themselves.

The last night of the Christmas production this year (the night I stayed home) Jesus fell off the cross.  It was not his fault, there was a mix up with the hammer that helps remove the nails.  The guards had to continue without the proper tools and Jesus was left to fend for himself.  From what I hear, it was a quick fall and the play got back on track quickly.  However, at the cast party it was mentioned numerous times…it was funny.  The actor playing Jesus was a good sport, knowing that he will never live it down, even if it was not his fault.  He has been crucified 21 times over the years, but this is the only one that was ever messed up.  I think that is a pretty good record.

Of course, this got me thinking. (you know how I am)  How many times do we let Jesus fall off his cross?  How many times do we think that we can perform our way into his love without his sacrifice?  We cheapen his gift of Grace when we think we can earn his favor. If we could do it on our own, the crucifixion would not be necessary.  We are strongest when we know our weakness. Without his blood, we are nothing…period.  It is easy to blame him when something goes wrong.  He will graciously let us point our fingers at him, all the while knowing that it is our mistake. What is the lesson of this fall?   His grace is truly amazing.