The last two days (Maundy Thursday and Good Friday) our church hosted one of the unique events of the holiday season -- Scarlet Steps. Last year Ann Kimmich, the director of our Art Ministry, "Inspire," enlisted the help of artists in our church to produce works that would depict the life and death of Jesus. It was hard to imagine how they would out do last year -- sequels are usually not as good as the originals. Well I was wrong, this year was fantastic.
The theme of this year's presentation was "A Love Foretold" and attempted to express an Old Testament prophecy concerning the Messiah and show the New Testament answer and fulfillment, proving that Jesus is the Yeshua Messiah! Attenders were struck by the creativity, the meaningful expression in each work of art and how the entire walking tour through the Savior's life was a seamless stream of thought. Once through the art, those touring were confronted by a "sin room" with blaring TV's with looped video of tragedies in history. From Hitler to 9-11 --- Nixon and Clinton -- Munich killings and the like. If that was not personal enough to help you understand why Jesus had to die, you turn the corner and there was a room of mirrors allowing you to look and see who was the cause of Jesus' death. The onlookers were then guided through a number of different rooms for reflection. A confession room, a praise and thanksgiving room and finally a prayer room. The tour ended in the sanctuary where they could participate in communion. It was my privilege to lead what I called the "Passover Principle." Planning a creativity time to experience the Lord's Supper is my artistic expression at Scarlet Steps. I can't draw or sculpt, so I try to engage heart, mind, eyes and ears and discover Jesus anew and fresh.
Some 500 people went thru this year. By 8PM on Friday night groups of us were gathering to discuss how we could improve on it next year. Sounds like Scarlet Steps is becoming a tradition at NewSong. We would pray that the truth of the gospel harnessed to the talents and gifts our Body and would penetrate the hearts of those in attendance.
It's Saturday and clean up begins -- but SUNDAY IS COMING!