Have you ever been accused of being a “storyteller?” If so, you probably were accused of being a liar. While that is one kind of “story telling,” I believe there are many ways to tell a story. For instance, if a picture can say 1000 words, an illustration in a child’s storybook Bible can tell the story of David and Goliath from 1 Samuel 17. I’ve seen this story acted out several different live stage presentations; movies and songs and dances have been created to tell the story. No matter the medium, this story (and all of God’s stories!) must be told, especially for the accompanying spiritual Truths.
Take a moment to answer this question: Who is God?
How do you know?
Someone told you, right?
In Romans 10:13-15 Paul is talking, in part, about the storytelling we do when we tell people about Jesus.
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'” (NIV)
It has been said, “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” We are called to tell God’s story at all times – in the Church and in the greater world. Use words, paint, pictures, dance, drama, music – anything and everything to tell the story of God’s love and grace.
God,
Thank you for lavishing your love on us and for calling us to be your children through Jesus Christ. Thank you for calling us according to your purposes and working for our good. Thank you for expecting us to be worshippers in Spirit and in Truth and to tell your Story to those around us. Whether through preaching, words, images, dramatic interpretation, music, or another arts medium, give us what we need to tell your Story. May we be the beautiful feet that bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to those we encounter. We ask this through the empowerment of Holy Spirit and in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. AMEN.
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1)
“ God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
“God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24)