Storms always get worse before they're over

I'm in the midst of directing this kids musical at church - a story about Noah's Ark told creatively from the animals' perspective. For the most part it's been fun but after rehearsals like the one we had yesterday, where we really begin to pull it all together & nothing seems to go quite right, I begin to think perhaps that's because I really don't know what I'm doing(!) & I wonder why on earth I, of all people, am doing it(?!) when there are others who would likely be so much better at it....people who can actually run the sound system - or get certain kids to sing - or to move two steps to the right and back again together (key word here). Throw in a very simple (so I thought) prop (umbrellas) & you almost create more problems than it's worth. I'll be so relieved if all the kids still have two eyes when we're done!

The thought occurred to me tho' - that when one has learned something well enough to explain it to others in a way that they can understand - then is when you know that one really knows what they're talking about. Storms always get worse before they're over but if we trust & obey God, He will guide us thru' them - that's the moral of our story. And here is where it seems God is trying to teach me(!) that I have been well prepared to share this particular lesson w/ this group of kids....now, I just need to do my part well in order for them to do the same. God is not looking for perfection here - but He does expect for the job He has called us to do - to be well done - as in to the BEST of our ability. Sooo - after reminding the kids in a follow up email after rehearsal yesterday - to really practice this week, I promised them .... that I would too.

On a more positive note...I got a sneak peek at the ark our crew is "building" & it gave me goosebumps! - Was SO thrilled to see what a nice job they've already done - & they've only just begun! I've decided that I'm not going to let the kids see it until our dress rehearsal - & to surprise them w/ it then in hopes that it will be just the right ingredient to spark the measure of enthusiasm I'm really after just in time for our performance. - Just so grateful to have a team handling ALL of that - who know what they're doing & seem to enjoy it ... no lack of enthusiasm whatsoever there :)

¹ But now, this is what the LORD says—
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

² When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.

Is 41: 1-2a