The Wonder of a Christmas Play - Tracy Krauss

The fifteenth of the month loomed and I felt zero inspiration. What was I going to write for this month's blog post? 

Then the mail arrived and with it, the latest copy of FellowScript. It felt like an early Christmas gift! What a blessing to be part of such a dedicated and talented group - a family of like minded writers whose main goal is to glorify God! The issues theme - "Christian Writer, Worshipper, Warrior" resonated with me as I eagerly read each article and column. 

Then I came to Sharon Hamilton's column on 'Writing plays for church' near the end of the magazine and a spark was ignited. I had enjoyed every single piece thus far, having read from cover to cover, but this piece really spoke to me. As a long time Drama teacher, and having been involved in amateur theatre for thirty-odd years, I embraced her conviction that theatre - even simple plays enacted by children - can have a huge impact on individuals and on society at large. Yes! This is exactly why I have been so passionate about the role of the arts, especially theatre, as a conduit for conveying the gospel. 

Who can resist a rag-tag bunch of shepherds, robed in assorted bathrobes, tea towels askew on their heads? Or the sometimes over zealous sheep that often accompany them? I have been to many Christmas concerts in my time, sometimes behind the scenes and sometimes in the audience, but it never ceases to amaze me how this familiar story, often re-enacted with less than perfection, has the power to move even the most skeptical onlooker. There is something about the story of the babe in a manger that softens the hardest of hearts. It is the one time of year when people are willing to listen and ponder with open hearts.  

Thank you to Sharon - and to all of you who have ever been involved even in a small way with your local Christmas pageant. It is a timeless and powerful way to present the gospel to those who might not otherwise receive the message with such good humour. 

PS: This year I have the privilege of accompanying our local Sunday School pageant on the piano. I'm also acting in our community theatre's production of 'The Elf's Rebellion'. I get to play the part of the grouchy elf. What fun!! (It's been awhile since I've been able to act in a play, since I'm usually directing.) I'm trying not to get into character too deeply, though... 

Tracy Krauss writes - and sometimes gets to 'act up' - from her home in Northern BC. Visit her website for all of her published novels, stage plays, and other work. She is also enjoying her new term as ICWF's president and fully admits to any shortcomings... The learning curve is steep, folks! Hats off to former executive for their persistence and faith in navigating this wonderful organization.