Clothe Yourselves with Compassion

Transcription

1 Clothe Yourselves with Compassion Colossians 3:12-17 A Scripture Echo Reading for 3 Voices New Revised Standard Version

2 Printing Instructions: Scripture Echo readings are formatted to be printed as double-sided documents, so that the page turns occur during breaks between sections. You can print double-sided directly to your computer s printer if it has that feature, or print first the odd pages, then print the even pages on the other side. Or you may choose to print all pages single-sided from your printer. Then when you make copies, be sure to copy one-sided to two-sided. We ve found that black, 3-ring notebooks, one-half inch width, are ideal to hold each script. Remember to make enough copies so that there is one copy for each reader and one extra copy for someone who will function as the director. If all of the readers will have a surface on which to place their scripts (such as music stands, lectern, pulpit, etc.) you may wish to print the scripts as single-sided documents, for easy page-shifting. Find what works best for you, in your setting, so that section breaks are seamless and each reader can easily follow the script. Dedicated to the P.C. (U.S.A.), January 2011 Arrangement of scripture 2011 by Tracey Marx, Scripture Echo. All rights reserved. Given as a gift to pastors & others in ministry, in the churches of the P.C. (U.S.A.), and those on our e-newsletter mailing list. Please freely use and share in worship and other ministry settings, especially as a prelude to difficult discussions. For other permission, please contact us at info@scriptureecho.com. New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. January 20, 2011 Edition

3 Contents What is a Scripture Echo?... 1 An explanation of how a Scripture Echo reading works Suggestions for Reading tips for making the reading smooth and effective A Scripture Echo Rehearsal... 6 Take at least an hour to rehearse -- here is a plan. Colossians 3: The complete scripture passage, for your reference Questions for Personal Reflection... 9 What does this passage say to you? Key Markings that guide how to read the script Introduction to the Reading What to say before the Scripture Echo Clothe Yourselves with Compassion And finally, the script itself!

4 All scripture is God-breathed 2 Timothy 3:16 NIV

5 What is a Scripture Echo? A Scripture Echo is an arrangement of scripture verses where the words echo one another. Scripture Echo readings can be used in any worship setting, from a formal Sunday morning worship service to a contemporary service to an informal retreat to a small group devotion. Each Scripture Echo reading has parts for two or more voices (usually three). One voice reads a sentence or a small section of the scripture passage. Then, words and phrases from that section are echoed back and forth by all the voices. Then another section is read and echoed. This format is repeated as the voices make their way through the passage. The words are interwoven and played against one another with key phrases recurring. Sometimes a verse or small section of the passage will function as a refrain. Each reader uses his or her voice like an instrument, varying the pace, volume and articulation, intertwining with the other voices. Although the script provides ample suggestions for the reading, each person can also contribute his or her own style and interpretation. There is no special experience or training necessary for the readers, beyond a rehearsal. A Scripture Echo reader can be anyone who enjoys and feels comfortable reading Scripture aloud, and can follow the script clearly and jump right in with their lines. Those with a musical background (voice or instrumental) might find it easier to step into the flow of the Echo reading: pausing, overlapping, increasing or decreasing volume, etc. Scripts are ready for use in worship. The scripts have been carefully written and rehearsed to make scripture come alive in the spoken voice. The words of the Scripture Echo reading are all from scripture; nothing has been added, simply repeated. Reading passages of the Bible in this format opens us to hear God speaking to us in a new way by allowing the words and images to cascade through our minds and hearts. 1

6 Suggestions for Reading Here are some suggestions for reading a Scripture Echo. Remember, you will bring your own style and interpretation to the reading. The KEY on page 10 provides a handy guide to the script markings. 1. VOLUME : Think of your voice as an instrument. As you read aloud, be aware of how your voice sounds as you say each word. Use your voice to help convey the message. Be loud and bold at times, then soft and gentle. Allow your voice to blend with the other voices, then stand out, then blend again. 2. EMPHASIS: Emphasize italicized words. You ll want to emphasize certain words. We ve italicized some words that might be emphasized, but feel free to make changes. Experiment to see what sounds right to your ear. For example, note the difference between these three readings: I have called you by name and you are mine. I have called you by name and you are mine. I have called you by name and you are mine. 3. ARTICULATION: Enjoy saying the words. Think of how you can say a word in a manner that reflects its meaning. For example, say the word precious out loud in various ways. How can you say the word precious in a precious way? Try the same thing with these words: solemn joy fire gentle afraid Don t overdo it, just experiment to see how you can add more meaning to the reading by how you say the words. We ve put some words in bold print that seem to lend themselves to this kind of articulation. 2

7 4. PACE: Vary the pace. We ve marked some sections to be read more slowly or more quickly than others. Usually you will want to start each new section more slowly, so that the words can be heard clearly, and increase the pace as you move through that section, slowing again for specific emphasis, or if a new thought is introduced. At times, one reader will complete the sentence of the preceding reader, as if it is one voice speaking the entire sentence. When this happens, the line will start out with dashes --. When you see this marking, jump right in with your line, without significant pause. There may be some words or phrases that you will want to say very slowly and deliberately, setting them apart and lifting them up. Try to give each of these words equal emphasis, like you are banging a bass drum. Suggestions for these words and phrases are underlined. Sometimes, we ve underlined phrases that are difficult to articulate (thus difficult for listeners to hear), so that you might read them slowly and clearly. Our tendency when we read aloud (even when we read the Bible aloud!) is to rush, rush, rush right through the words. Take it slowly. Give listeners a chance to catch up. Remember, some in your community may have trouble hearing. Take your time; let the words linger. 5. ECHO: Allow an echo effect. As the readers echo a word or phrase back and forth, the volume should get softer and softer. You might want to try having one voice begin to speak before the previous voice has finished, overlapping the words with one another. We ve indented the words and phrases that might be echoed. For example: 1: You are mine. 2: You are mine. 3: You are mine. 6. SILENCE: Don t forget to pause. The asterisks divide one section from another. If there are three asterisks, pause for three seconds. You will be tempted to jump into the next section without leaving enough time for silence. Your hearers will need the silence to allow what they have heard to sink in. Trust God to work in the silence. The ellipses (...) leave space for silence in the midst of one voice speaking. Again, leave a significant pause before starting again. 3

8 7. PRACTICE: Take the time to practice. For a Scripture Echo to be effective, you really need to rehearse thoroughly. You ll want to set aside about an hour for your rehearsal. See the next section for some suggestions. 8. MICROPHONES: Make sure you have proper and clear amplification. This is crucial. We can t emphasize this enough. If your setting requires microphones, don t forget to make microphones a part of your rehearsal. Sound systems can be fickle, and technical problems can interfere with presenting an effective reading. 9. STAGING: See what works for your setting. Usually, the Scripture Echo readers will stand in a group, with some distance between them if the sound system requires space between microphones. We ve found that if the readers stand closer to one another, they have a better sense of voices blending and echoing. However, you may wish to separate them, having them stand at different places in the sanctuary. During one Scripture Echo reading, the readers stood far apart to begin and then during each pause between the sections, they moved closer together. See what works for you. 10. HIGHLIGHT: Clearly mark your parts. We ve carefully constructed each script, using a large font, enough white space, and appropriately-spaced page turns, so that it should be easy to keep your place. You will probably want to mark your part with a highlighter, so that it s even easier to follow along. 11. TAKE RISKS: Explore the wide range of possibilities of your voice. We communicate by the content of what we say and by the manner in which we say it. We re all used to hearing scripture read aloud in a certain kind of tone. Explore different ways to use your voice and to play your voice against those of the other readers. You will need to be willing to take a risk. Take a risk with your voice and how you use it. Risk speaking in a way that you haven t before. If you re soft-spoken and gentle, try to proclaim certain words loudly and with oomph! If you re naturally louder and bolder, try 4

9 to make your tone gentle and soft. Experiment with drawing out words making them last and last. Make other words short and staccato. One way to help change the style of our voices is to imagine speaking words in a certain scenario. Imagine how you would speak if you were: -Speaking to a child who is frightened, soothing him and calming him down -Speaking words to someone who is just about to do something that will be very difficult for them, and needs to be encouraged and lifted up -Speaking words of tenderness and adoration to the one you love God speaks to us in every situation in our lives. As we share God s words with others, we can use our voices to help communicate the different ways that God soothes, encourages and loves us. As strange as it may seem to rehearse one part of an Echo Reading, you may wish to do so at home. Try using a tape recorder to record your voice, then listen to see what seems to work. When you rehearse with the other readers, bring your own interpretation and share ideas with one another. 12. OOPS: Don t worry if you make a mistake. Even with practice, there might be a glitch or two. Simply continue through as if nothing had happened. Don t try to go back and recover. Chances are those listening won t notice. Remember, when you read scripture, you aren t performing; you are leading worship. Your underlying prayer might be that God receive all the glory. 5

10 A Scripture Echo Rehearsal As with any public reading of scripture, it s important to practice. For the most effective reading, you ll want to set aside about an hour for the rehearsal. Choose one person (other than the three readers) to function as a director, who can listen to the interplay of the voices and make suggestions after each run-through. The director can also fill in as an emergency substitute, and will be there to provide an extra script should one accidentally be left at home! We found that reading the script through four times was usually sufficient and was a good stopping point in terms of time and energy. Here is a suggested format for the rehearsal: Give the scripts to each reader ahead of time, so everyone can familiarize themselves with the passage and with the Scripture Echo arrangement. Suggest that each reader take some time to think through the Questions for Personal Reflection. (Page 9). Suggest that readers visit our website and listen to the Audio Samples, to get a good sense of what an Echo reading can sound like. The samples are only 30 seconds in length, but they should give some idea of the interplay of voices. Readers may also listen to our full-length recording of Isaiah 43:1-5. This version is more complex than the scripts, but should give a helpful preview of how the voices can interact. Then, gather together a day or so ahead. If you can, rehearse in the place where you will be reading the Echo. If you will be using microphones, make them a part of your rehearsal, too, along with the sound technician. Have someone read the un-echoed scripture passage aloud in its entirety. (Page 8). Follow with a prayer for God s guidance, using this prayer or your own: O God, be with us as we prepare to share your word. Help our voices give expression to all that you would like to share with those who will be listening. We give you praise, Lord, for your word and for its life-changing power for each of us. Amen 6

11 Read together through the script for the first time, becoming familiar with the movement of the voices. Read through a second time, stopping after each section to share feedback about how it went and to give suggestions for a smoother reading. Then repeat that section until it sounds just like you want it to. Stop as often as you need to, to redo a section that didn t seem to flow correctly. Read through a third time, straight through without stopping. If there are any errors, just keep going as you would if an error happened in the worship service. Afterwards, have each person share feedback. You may want to tape record this third reading, and then listen to it as a group, noting any changes you will want to make. Read through a final time, this time standing in the places that you will be in for the service and with any microphones that will be used. Close with prayer. Thank you, Lord, for being present with us today. What a privilege it is to read Scripture and to share your word with others. May our reading bring you glory. Amen 7

12 Colossians 3:12-17 New Revised Standard Version 12 As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. 13 Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 8

13 Questions for Personal Reflection As you read through this scripture passage and the script, take some time to reflect on the words and how they speak to you. Engaging the text on a personal level will help you prepare to share the reading with your community. Consider these questions or your own: 1) Verse 12 tells us to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Think about an upcoming situation in which it might be hard to wear these garments. Which might be the most challenging for you to wear? 2) Read verse 13. Whom do you need to forgive? Why is it so hard to forgive this person (or group)? What help do you need from God to prepare to forgive? 3) Verse 15 encourages us to be filled with peace and gratitude within the body of Christ. As you think about your community, what are you grateful for? What brings you a sense of peace? Take time to lift these things up in prayer. 4) Read verse 17. Think about the upcoming situation that came to mind when you answered the first question above. What does verse 17 mean to you in regard to this situation? 5) As you read this passage and prepare to share it with others, what is your prayer for yourself? What is your prayer for your community? How might these words from Colossians shape your prayer? Questions for Personal Reflection 9

14 Key Key Italics: Emphasize these words. Underlined: Articulate each word clearly; set each word apart. Bold: Try to say the word in a way that reflects its meaning. For example, say precious in a way that communicates preciousness. ***Asterisks: Pause between sections, at least one second for each asterisk. Ellipses: Pause during one person s line, at least one full second. Indentation Indentation Indentation: Echo these words and phrases. Allow the words to overlap and have each voice speak more softly than the previous one. -- Dashes: When a line begins with dashes, the reader will be completing a sentence that the previous reader began. Try not to overlap voices, but jump right in without a significant pause, as if it was one voice reading the entire sentence. (Parentheses): Some other suggestions are found in parentheses. REMEMBER: These are just some possibilities. Feel free to find your own interpretation and to practice to see what works best for you. 10

15 Introduction to the Reading One reader (or all readers alternating paragraphs) may introduce the Scripture Echo reading with these words: Our Scripture today is from Colossians, chapter 3, verses We ll be using a Scripture Echo reading to share this passage with you. We ll read a verse or small section, and then echo some of the words and phrases back and forth, emphasizing them in different ways. We ll then read another verse, making our way through the passage, using this method. This way of experiencing scripture invites us to hear God s word in a new way, allowing the echo to stretch out the words and phrases, that they might linger in our ears as they make their way into our hearts and minds. (Optional: You might find it helpful to close your eyes as you listen to the Echo reading, allowing the words to soak in and inviting God s word to cascade through you.) In the letter to the Colossians, new believers are encouraged to think about the difference that their faith makes in their interactions with others, individually and as a community. As we read this passage, consider what God might be saying to you, and what God might be saying to us, this day. 11

16 Clothe Yourselves with Compassion A Scripture Echo Reading Of Colossians 3:12-17 New Revised Standard Version (Use an encouraging, gentle tone throughout. As the words advise listeners to be compassionate, kind and humble, allow your voice to be compassionate, kind and humble. And patient Do not rush through this reading. Lift up the words, and give them space to breathe.) Section I 1: As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. 2: As God s chosen ones, 3: Holy and beloved, (Say bold words in a manner that reflects their meaning.) 1: Clothe yourselves with compassion. (Set each underlined word apart. Articulate clearly.) 2: Compassion 3: With kindness 1: Kindness 2: Clothe yourselves. (Gently) 12

17 3: With humility 1: Humility 2: With meekness 3: And patience. 1: Clothe yourselves with compassion, (The pace quickens here.) 2: Kindness 3: Humility 1: Meekness 2: And patience. *** (Pause 1, 2, 3) (A Note on Section Breaks: Allow silence after each section, pausing 3 full seconds, so that the hearers can absorb the words just spoken. Don t rustle or turn the page until after you have allowed for a full three seconds of silence. Then, take the time you need to turn the page and make sure all the readers are ready before you begin the next section. Resist the temptation to speed through. Trust the silence. It makes for a much more effective reading.) 13

18 Section II 3: Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 1: As the Lord has forgiven, 2: Forgiven you, (Emphasize italicized words.) 3: So you must also forgive. 1: Bear with one another, 2: And if anyone 3: Anyone (Indented lines: overlap previous speaker, and decrease volume to create an echo effect.) 1: Anyone 2: If anyone has a complaint against another, 3: Forgive each other. (Say bold words in a manner that reflects their meaning.) 14

19 1 & 2: Forgive each other. 3 & 1: Forgive each other. 2: Just as the Lord has forgiven you, 3: Forgive each other. (Gently) 1: As the Lord has forgiven you, forgive each other. (Very gently, slowly) *** (Pause 1, 2, 3) 15

20 Section III 2: Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 3: Above all 1: Above all (Indented lines: overlap previous speaker, and decrease volume to create an echo effect.) 2: Above all 3: Clothe yourselves with love, (Emphasize italicized words.) 1: With love, (Set each underlined word apart. Articulate clearly.) 2: Which binds everything together, 3: Everything (Say bold words in a manner that reflects their meaning.) 1: In perfect harmony. 2: And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts * 3: In your hearts 16

21 1: To which indeed you were called in the one body. 2: And be thankful. 3: Be thankful. 1: Above all, clothe yourselves with love. * 2: Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. 3: And be thankful. *** (Pause 1, 2, 3) 17

22 Section IV Increase the tempo and volume as you move through this section, creating a crescendo. 1: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. 2: Let the word of Christ dwell in you, 3: In you (Emphasize italicized words.) 1: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, (Set each underlined word apart. Articulate clearly.) (Say bold words in a manner that reflects their meaning.) 2: With gratitude in your hearts 3: With gratitude (Indented lines: overlap previous speaker, and decrease volume to create an echo effect.) 1: With gratitude in your hearts 2: Sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs to God. 3: To God 1: To God 18

23 2: And whatever you do, 3: Whatever you do 1: Whatever you do (Very gently, but encouragingly) 2: Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything (With a more matter of fact tone) 3: Do everything 1: Do everything 2: In the name of the Lord Jesus 3: In the name of the Lord 1: In the name of the Lord 2: Giving thanks to God the Father through him. *** (Pause 1, 2, 3) 19

24 Section V This ending section takes phrases from each verse and pulls them together. Return to a slower, more reflective pace, and use a gentle tone. 3: Clothe yourselves with compassion. 1: Forgive one another. 2: Clothe yourselves with kindness. 3: Bear with one another. 1: Clothe yourselves with meekness. 2: As the Lord has forgiven you, so you must also forgive. 3: Clothe yourselves. with patience. 1: Do everything in the name of the Lord. (Very gently) 2: Above all, clothe yourselves with love. (Very, very gently) *** (Pause 1, 2, 3) 3: Amen. (Optional) 20

25 More Scripture Echo Readings Available on the Web