Do you have a love for the arts and a passion for Jesus? Wish you could act, sing, or dance while sharing the gospel? Or maybe you love being a part of the entertainment biz, but prefer to be behind the scenes working the magic. If this calls to you in any way then Revelation Ministries may just be just the ticket for you. Travis Johnson, founder and president of Revelation Ministries, describes it as “a Christian performing arts ministry consisting of volunteers from around South Florida. We are from all walks of life and denominational backgrounds, but we share one thing in common: we love the Gospel and we love the arts.”

Performing since 1996, Revelation Ministries, a non-profit 501c3, has reached out to audiences both in the States and abroad. Because we are commissioned by Jesus to spread the Gospel to all the world and to make disciples of all the nations, Revelation Ministries has taken this command to heart and has migrated performances to the hungry-for-hope people in Russia and the Ukraine using their local talent, as well as to Israel and London. Their signature faith-based production “He Lives!” — filled with music, drama, and dance — showcases the life of Jesus Christ from birth and ministry to death and resurrection. This incredible story of our Savior’s sacrifice for us sinners and lost souls is a very powerful tool in reaching those who don’t have a relationship with Jesus. This depiction of love transcends any language barrier or custom divide. The cast has seen miraculous works through this ministry. Some of their favorite places to share the gospel is at detention homes, prisons and refuge centers where many of these folks are transformed by the Good News of redemption regardless of race, gender, economic status or past history.

Opening hearts

This coming season the cast will perform “The Scarlet Thread,” a 2 hour-full scale production of the Bible from Genesis to the Resurrection. Though the show could be housed in a particular church as its venue, it is a non-denominational production. At the end of each performance there is an invitation for anyone who wants to accept Christ as their Savior or recommit their lives to him. Prayer is also available to anyone in need.

Using the arts and entertainment to reach people for Christ has proven to be highly effective. Remember the impact Mel Gibson’s movie “The Passion of the Christ” had on its viewers? Numerous people came to know Christ because of it. Combining music and drama in portraying the story of God’s love and forgiveness often compels us on a deeper, spiritual level than what words alone can evoke. And inviting a non-believer to an inspirational performance rather than to a church service may receive a better response. Many are reluctant to attend church based on pre-conceived notions, a bad experience in the past, or fear of being “preached at.” But inviting someone to see a good quality show for sheer enjoyment sets the stage, so to speak, in opening their heart and mind to the message being presented.

Quality is what Revelation Ministries delivers. Though most of the cast members are not professional performers, director Oksana Horton has an extensive and impressive directorial and performance background, bringing these skills to her cast of volunteers. Creating an environment of professionalism, she is able to stretch performers to their best ability. I can say this because I, myself, have performed in a few of Revelation Ministries productions. Though I have a passion for singing and dancing, I am fairly certain no one would ever accuse me of being a professional at either. Still, I am utilized where my strengths lie and leave the solos to those who can wow the audience. Gratefully for everyone involved, there is also a professional music director who can make harmony out of cacophony. For the very reason of knowing a performer’s strengths and weakness, auditions are necessary. And though performers in Revelation Ministries are volunteers, there is a dedication that is required of each cast member to make the production successful. But, I guarantee you, that the experience itself will inspire you and will give you a “family” that is not readily found in our culture today.

Are you ready to use your talent as your ministry? In 1 Peter 4:10 we are told, “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” God gave you these gifts for a reason—to glorify him, our Lord and Creator. What better way to honor him than with something that also brings you joy.

Not a performer?

Revelation Ministries is also looking for set designers, stage managers, audio and visual techs, marketers, promoters, graphic designers, photographers, parking lot attendants, ticket takers, etc. Or, if you would like to help out financially, there is a place to donate on the website or call to reserve advertising space for your business.

Auditions for the upcoming season will be August 20 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Apply online and reserve a time slot. For more information, go to RevelationMinistries.com.

Chris Alexander is a freelance writer, songwriter, artist, traveler, and Revelation Mininistries performer. Go to MusicArtLove.com for upcoming events and gallery of artwork.