Last Friday, I, along with many brothers and sisters and new friends, had the opportunity to watch the gospel musical “An Encounter… Never by Chance” produced and performed by brothers and sisters from the Cantonese congregation of MAC. First of all, I won’t go into the plot here to avoid spoilers and to preserve the interest of those who haven’t yet seen it but may have the chance to in the future. However, I would like to take this opportunity to share some of my reflections after watching the performance.
I’m truly grateful that brothers and sisters from both the main church and its branches participated in this musical, both onstage and behind the scenes. On the one hand, I was amazed to discover so many talented and gifted believers among us. On the other hand, I’m thankful for the collaborative service that spanned across congregations. Coordinating actors and crew members from different backgrounds, with varying experiences and unique strengths, is no easy task. Seeing the brilliant final performance, it’s clear that it was the result of countless rehearsals, communications, struggles, and mutual adjustments of expectations. Yet I believe that because everyone shared the same goal and worked in the same direction, they were able to come together in unity to complete this production.
After the show, I heard many audience members share how deeply touched they were by various parts of the story. To be honest, I’ve always considered myself a rational person—even watching emotional drama series didn’t bring a tear to my eye—and this time was no different. Still, I must admit that several lines spoken by the actors moved me, stirring my heart and even causing my tear ducts to activate. According to Cindia, backstage was even more of a “disaster zone”, with tears flowing every time the actors returned offstage. Yet despite their emotions, they had to compose themselves and step back on stage to perform. I truly believe that to move others, one must first be moved. In the same way, when we share the love of Christ, how can we expect to persuade others if we have not first experienced that love ourselves?
Finally, this musical also led me to reflect on the role of Christian art. Is a musical simply a tool for evangelism, or does it carry a deeper cultural mission of our Christian faith? If it’s merely the former, then perhaps we may feel inclined to directly insert themes of repentance and turning to Christ. But if it’s the latter, then what we hope for is a more profound and lasting influence – one in which the message and medium both embody Christian values and provoke deep reflection on life and faith. This allows those who do not yet believe to experience the power of the gospel – not just as a “ticket to heaven”, but as a source of strength that enables us to live with dignity, uphold our beliefs, and press forward with resilience through the highs and lows of life.
I’m grateful for the dedication and hard work of every person involved, both onstage and behind the scenes. I also appreciate the brothers and sisters who actively invited friends to attend. Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. May the Lord continue to use MAC to shine the light of life in this dark and troubled world.
Rev. Chiu