Time For Pie

Have you ever heard ‘the time for pie is when it’s passin’?’

I thought of that as I watched adults racing around before a VBS program. I remembered the excitement and last minute panic of pre-show preparations. I was never much an on-stage-performer, but I loved the front end – the months of planning, the endless to-do lists, the crazy rehearsals, and the behind the scenes costuming. The directing of children’s musicals was always nerve wracking but very satisfying, knowing I had huge numbers of adults who had my back. I was very blessed to be part of a team of believers who worked together to make opportunities for the performing arts be part of the church curriculum.

As I watched everyone work together and the kids focus on the task at hand, I knew we were in for a treat. I was thrilled for their success, yet a part of me was a wee bit sad. Indeed, the time for that kind of pie has probably passed me by. Unless I do something easy physically, I won’t be able to help. Except I can pray.

Then I got to thinking about how the body of Christ functions. Many are unsung heroes who work on props or programs, set construction and scenery design, or sound and lights. Back stage cat-herders (aka child-wranglers) are super heroes!!!

Some children have lead parts. Others are among ‘the cast of thousands’ (or so it seems at times). All are important. All are learning everything from body and vocal control to true teamwork. Amidst it all, there are important truths written with inspiration by the authors. Support for the performance is due to faithful believers who share in tithes and offerings. Let’s not forget the instructors who patiently drill the songs and routines nor the custodians who must clean up after the hordes of children tromp around the building. Only when the body of Christ works together can something of this scope result in a performance of this caliber.

As thousands of Vacation Bible School workers across the country commit themselves to investing in the lives of children this summer, I pray they and the kids will learn God’s word to keep in their hearts for eternity. I pray blessings for the staff because of their sacrifice of time, skill, and patience. I pray the children will continue to participate in church activities with joy and find their place in the church body.

Ephesians 3:10 gives the reason for the body to work together – ‘through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known.’

1 Corinthians 12 explains there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord. They all work together to share God’s love and message with the world. How fun to be part of that mission through Bible School!

I know this is an odd blog, but I’m just processing a part of my life and future.

Blessings

Kara Beth