This past weekend we were talking about how musicals have informed us about our faith. Godspell and Jesus Christ Superstar continue to shape perspectives of audiences to this day.

This week’s Lectionary readings from Genesis 37 and Psalm 105 are reminders of another musical…

“he {God} had sent a man ahead of them, Joseph, who was sold as a slave. His feet were hurt with fetters, his neck was put in a collar of iron; until what he had said came to pass, the word of the LORD kept testing him. The king sent and released him; the ruler of the peoples set him free. He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his possessions, to instruct his officials at his pleasure, and to teach his elders wisdom. Praise the LORD! ~ Psalm 105: 17-22, 45b

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat!

On stage and screen, we get a chance to see human redrafting of Biblical times through these musicals. While we know it’s not all true, these more modern looks at Jesus, Joseph, Judas and many other characters provide a modern-day take on stories that are lived out over many generations under different names and places.

Think about it. Have you met a “Joseph” over your lifetime; someone who didn’t seem to have a chance in life and yet ended up in a great position, helping so many others including those who helped him down (rather than up?) A Judas? A Mary?

ACTIONS:

• Think back to “Bible musicals” you’ve enjoyed. Are there positive characters in your own life that remind you of these portrayals? If positive ones, consider a note or call to affirm those characteristics in that person, possibly even referencing the musical.
• Maybe it’s time to watch one of your favorite “Bible musicals” over the next week or so? Or maybe one that you’ve never gotten the time to watch?

Enjoy the day, filled with the Spirit!

Lectionary Texts for this Sunday, August 13, 2017:

• Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28 and Psalm 105: 1-6, 16-22, 45b
• 1 Kings 19:9-18 and Psalm 85:8-13
• Romans 10:5-15
• Matthew 14:22-33