Creative Chaos: less is more

Several years ago, I found myself hating Easter.

We were working with a large church, filling our Christian obligation of servitude, and participating in breathtaking productions, musically and theatrically. To celebrate the season, I was one of the Directors of an Easter drama consisting of five hundred cast members, live animals, a rockin’ band, smoke machines, laser lights, and tens of thousands of audience members. Usually showing around seventeen performances, it was a great “ministry”.

We raised money for special causes, connected with people who wouldn’t attend a normal service, and depicted the life of Christ is a personal, touchable way. The epic production gained so much notoriety that it was written up in several magazines, we were interviewed by Peter Jennings, and President Bill Clinton flew in twice for special performances. It was as invigorating as it was mind-numbing.

The second time Bill Clinton’s entourage came, my husband was recruited to be a driver in the motorcade carrying the President’s staff. After the performance, as he was driving a group back to the tarmac for Air Force One, he asked them what they thought of the performance. They hemmed and hawed. They paused and reflected. And then they said something quite profound. “You know, sometimes less is more.”

I agree.

This year, at The Journey, less is more. We have some beautiful things planned for our celebration of Christ’s resurrection. But, they will not include flashing lights, smoke billowing from a tomb, or shimmering angels flying overhead. Rather, it will be a very intimate time of reflection, grace, and thankfulness.

Of course, décor is expected and all-important at Easter, and we will have a smidgen of that; silhouettes – allowing individuals to develop their own resurrection image in their minds. There is something magical that happens when we free our thoughts of pre-conceived images of God, and ask him to implant himself in our hearts and minds. The flash of a brightly-lit screen, the “Wow!” of an intricately designed stage, or the emotion of a well-phrased song will never compare with the beauty and wonder that arises from God’s gentle touch on our soul. Even the Psalmist David spoke of our weakness and lack making room for His greatness and magnitude.

During these special Christian holidays, there is a definite urge to go all out, throw caution to the wind, and liberally adorn ourselves with wild celebration. But this year, I’m asking God to fill my eyes with His glory, pour His song into my ears, and ignite my imagination to see the Easter story in the way that He chooses.

How are you planning to celebrate the resurrection this year?