Send in the Clowns

Luke 15:32
But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.

We sign up our oldest granddaughter, Virginia Rose, for Performing Arts Camp at our church this summer.  She is dubious and reluctant at first, but when she is reassured by Christine, the church's music minister, that she doesn't have to be responsible for a speaking part, Virginia agrees to give it a whirl.

To settle her nerves the night before camp begins, I tell Virginia this true story about her own mother's experience with choir musicals.  "Your Mom was very shy and dreaded getting up in front of anyone to speak, act, sing, you name it."  But once I got her involved in children's choir, and she was surrounded by other kids doing the same thing, she quickly got over her fears.  You will, too!"

"Are you sure, Gammie?"  Virginia asks.

"Positive," I respond.

After the first nine to one session on Monday, Virginia's enthusiasm is boundless.  She is eager to listen to the take-home CD and practice all the songs.  She tells me how she's helping to paint props, and has indelible stains on her shirt to prove it.  By day two, Virginia is feeling so much at home, she accepts a non-speaking role as a circus clown.  She's all in!

I'm thrilled for her, and falling in love with the story of the Prodigal Clown myself.  Of course, we all know the Bible story by heart, so no need to rehash it here, but for many of these children, learning that God's love for us never wavers, even when we go astray, is a first-time, powerful and, hopefully, lasting.

But what amazes me the most is this:  In four and a half days, the kids, along with teen and adult volunteers, put together a professional musical, which they perform on Friday for parents, grandparents and the community.  And without the unflagging efforts of April, our music education assistant at church, who directs the musical and coaches the children flawlessly, this magnificent production would not be possible.

Here are some photos my husband, Danny, takes of the singing and dancing under the Big Top!  Can you spot our special clown?

After the stellar performance, as I'm driving Virginia home, I hear her declare, "Gammie, Performing Arts Camp was so much fun, I can't wait 'til next year!"

What do you want to bet she'll be asking for a speaking role next time around?

Amen!