For the past 5 weeks I have been busier than ever as a cast member in The St. Louis Black Repertory Company’s production of “The Wiz,” which is an African-American adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz.” I play the part of Dorothy, who, after a tornado blows her and her home into the land of Oz, meets a number of characters who teach her the power of believing in oneself. The characters include a Scarecrow, a Tinman, and a Lion, all of whom have a desire to be made complete by the magical powers of the Wiz. Without spoiling the plot, together they embark on an arduous journey just to find what they thought they lacked was in their possession all along. The principle of the play is realizing that no matter what you are in need of, it is accessible when you believe.
Believing can be such an overused word. What really is believing? Believing is accepting the truth of something and having surety in that truth. It is not having proof of its existence, but deciding to act on what is believed outside of its tangibility. God has required us to have this kind of belief in Him. This is what we call faith, and without it, it is impossible to please Him. There is no situation that requires more faith than the faith required first to believe that God is and that He loved us so much that He would give His life for our salvation.
Believing in the redemptive love of Christ, is then the first and most important step to believing all other things. If He is able to redeem us, He is also able to restore us. He is able to lead and direct us, and guide us into all truth. Doubting then, does not nullify His power, but limits how we will experience it. We must believe in Christ and in believing in Him we choose a life where all things are possible. Where myths are dispelled, diseases are cured, the lost are found, and the crooked made straight. If only we believe.
Home is a place where burdens are laid down. It is a place where love overflows and hearts are mended. As believers we know this place is heaven, which has been prepared and is simply awaiting our arrival. Though we are subjected to live in this sin-sick world, we are given the power to experience heaven on earth through fellowship and communion with our Savior. We need not live in fear or torment, but are called to live abundantly because of the grace of Jesus Christ. What are you in need of? Can you believe it’s already done?
The Black Rep’s production of “The Wiz” will continue through June 30 at The Grandel Theatre (3610 Grandel Square). For more information, call (314) 534-3810 or visit www.theblackrep.org.
Supplementary Scriptures
Hebrews 11:6
Romans 8:32
Romans 8:32
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