Acting our Savior

I have been asked/ chosen to play Jesus in the upcoming Good Friday production that we are doing in our church. I am involved and committed to this ministry so without really thinking told them I would. It was not until tonight at our first stage blocking rehearsal that I realized what it means to play Jesus. I have to be able to truly act and show the emotions that Jesus would most likely have been showing during the passion.

Starting with the last supper, then moving to the garden, then before Pilate, then the whipping post, then on the cross, then dead in Mary's arms. The scenes are all still life pantomime. We have to have an "action" pose and hold it for the length of the song. There is the acting challenge that comes with this that I enjoy, however when it came time for the cross scene... That was hard.

I was standing on this fake cross, but realistic dimensions. There is a little platform for me to stand on, but I had to hold my arms out and up holding a pose. It was supremely uncomfortable. Then I thought, wow I am thinking how can I hang on a cross comfortably. The other thought that came to mind was just how painful it would be to be crucified. Just standing on the padded fake cross gave me a tiniest glimpse of the real pain that Jesus actually went through, I can't even imagine.

Here I am playing Jesus, and all I can think about is how much I am a sinner not worthy to be playing this role. Sure Charlie is still there being goofy and having a good time with my choir friends, but deep down these emotions were playing out in my heart. How much God loves us!!! It truly is an honor to have this part, but it is also extremely humbling as well. This is going to be an interesting Good Friday production...